ZWL$19 billion for devolution

Harare (New Ziana) – The government has increased funding for projects under the devolution agenda to $19.5 billion in 2021 up from $2.93 billion this year, as it forges ahead with the policy meant to spearhead development in marginalised areas of the country.

Finance and Economic Development Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said the devolution policy recognised the right of communities to manage their own affairs and to further their own development.

“In 2020, total devolution allocation is ZWL$2.93 billion, of which ZWL$703.8 million was disbursed by 30 September 2020. These resources supported various impactful projects being undertaken at the community level, and these are in the areas of health, education, water and sanitation, roads, among others,” he said in the 2021 national budget.

“In 2021, an allocation of ZWL$19.5 billion is being proposed, consistent with the Constitution to be allocated to Provincial Councils and Local Authorities and respective authorities are urged to prioritise water and sanitation, health services, education and road infrastructure, in view of challenges in these areas.”

Ncube said various tiers of government were complementing each other in providing efficient and effective service delivery to the people.

“A case in point is the impact of Devolution Funds in Makonde District, which in 2020 received more than ZWL$4,8 million. The District has made great strides in the delivery of water, health and education through use of devolution funds. In addition, at least seven wards in the district now have solar-powered boreholes and tanks, while a school is under construction in Ward 18.

“For roads rehabilitation, the District acquired a motorised grader to improve its road service network system. Targeted for the year 2021 are more than 20 health institutions in the rural parts of the district and increase the clinics to shorten distance being travelled by people to access health facilities,” he said.

Ncube said for efficient management of resources and accountability purposes, government was building capacities of beneficiaries and strengthening their financial and project management systems.

“Furthermore, Government is finalising the establishment of appropriate structures to ensure that devolution resources are efficiently utilised with accountability,” he said.
New Ziana