By Mvelo Mthiyane Zondo
AMID reports that Devolution funds for Matabeleland South Province for last year are still to be disbursed, the Deputy Minister for Local Government and Public Works, Albert Mavunga, has promised to push for their disbursement.
The province has reportedly not yet received 2024 Devolution funds, a development that is derailing developmental projects.
The deputy minister was reacting to remarks by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, during the commissioning of motorbikes, tipper truck and backhoe loader for the Gwanda Rural District Council.
Deputy Minister Mavunga promised to take up the matter to for deliberations and speedy release of the funds.
In her welcome remarks, Dr Ndlovu told Government officials, councillors, the business community and stakeholders that the province was yet to receive 2024 Devolution funds.
“As we celebrate this achievement, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges that have hindered progress in our local authorities, particularly the late disbursement of Devolution funds.
“The delay has stalled many projects that are vital for the growth and development of our communities. Gwanda Rural District Council is one of the local authorities that have felt the impact of these delays and it is imperative that we work together to address these issues.
“Timely access of resources is essential to fully realise our goals that impact the transformative projects that our communities deserve,” said Dr Ndlovu.
“As the President emphasised, ‘what is not planned for will not be executed and what is planned for and not executed will not be achieved’.
“So, let us work together to ensure that mandate and continue the realisation of the national vision.”
Deputy Minister Mavunga said local authorities could not fully function without Government support and assistance.
“It is the duty of the central government to uplift and support local authorities. I heard the Minister of State for Matabeleland South saying they are to received 2024 Devolution funds which has since stalled many projects. I will definitely report this to my Minister so that the matter will be treated with urgency.”
Turning to the councillors who received the motorbikes, the Deputy Minister said the bikes would capacitate them in the execution of their duties.
“These motorbikes are not meant for pleasure but, to give you access to all corners of your jurisdiction. From today onwards, there shall be no excuses of transport challenges. Let us utilise them responsibly and work for the development of our communities,” he said.
The province last received the Devolution funds in 2023 when it was allocated ZWL$210 million for the development towards capacitating councils for improved service delivery.
In 2024, the Government allocated 10 billion to the province’s seven rural district council, which regrettably is yet to be distributed.
Devolution funds have assisted local authorities to fulfil their obligations of ensuring access to social amenities through development of key infrastructure projects such as clinics, roads, classroom blocks, bridges and street lighting, among other facilities.
Social amenities and infrastructure development are some of the major pillars of National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
