Councillors Urged to Prioritise Community Projects

Takudzwa Karowangoro

The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Midlands Province, Owen Ncube, has underscored the pivotal role of councillors in accelerating development at ward level, urging them to prioritise practical projects that deliver tangible benefits to communities.

Addressing stakeholders in the province, Honourable Ncube said councillors are the first line of leadership closest to the people and must therefore focus on initiatives that improve daily living conditions.

“There are key areas that require urgent attention, including routine road maintenance such as pothole patching, the upkeep of public infrastructure through painting and refurbishing clinics and schools, and the mobilisation of resources to support income-generating projects for local communities.

“Councillors should actively promote village business units as engines for grassroots economic empowerment. I applaud the Second Republic for its commitment to decentralised development, commending President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa for the rollout of devolution funds, which have made a visible impact across Midlands Province,” said Hon. Ncube.

He cited the deployment of borehole drilling rigs that have improved access to clean water in rural and peri-urban areas, as well as the construction of more than 254 clinics in the province, significantly strengthening primary healthcare delivery.

Turning to constitutional matters, the minister addressed ongoing public debate around proposed amendments. He explained that Resolution 1, which seeks to extend the presidential term, originated from the people and was subsequently endorsed at the ZANU-PF National People’s Conference, including consultative gatherings held in Manicaland Province. This process, he said, reflected the will of party members and citizens alike.

“The Cabinet has since approved Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, describing the move as a direct alignment with the people’s mandate. The resolution would allow President Mnangagwa to continue leading the country until 2030, in line with the outcome of internal party and consultative processes,” Hon. Ncube stated.

He concluded by reiterating the importance of unity and accountability at local government level, calling on councillors to work closely with communities to ensure that devolution resources translate into sustainable development and improved livelihoods across Midlands Province.