Ladies and gentlemen so much has been said of Queen Elizabeth iii’s death as she was laid to rest on September 19 but the talking point was what most critics of African governments have referred to as the ‘humbling of the continent’s heads of State and government’ as they travelled to Buckingham palace in Zupcos. Yes MaZupco eikoko kkkk, kutoita standing akazarisa kkkk. Of course, zvoto zvine mazera takazvionera pamhuno sefodya and whether we like it or not. Kkkk zvakaoma nemadiro anoita flamboyance some of our African leaders, I am still wondering the kind of feeling in the buses which some netizens have sarcastically said one was driven by the Croc though he wasn’t there. Yeah at times one is forced to swallow pride and stoop that low while as well as dancing to the current tune and such was the case in the Great Britain. But honestly speaking, these white people ka, mwari ave navo. They can’t treat our own presidents like that imi ah. Vavo tikavadaro vanofara nxaaa kkkk.
Chete iwo maPresidents achowo akapusa Regai vajairirwe to that extent, they cannot tell our president the truth about what is causing the economic meltdown than always talking about sanctions. Masisi was here for Agricultural show and he talked about sanctions. Ramaphosa met Biden, he talks about Sanctions. I used to envy Ramaphosa not knowing he is also a coward kutokundwa naPopi or Phopi hameno ikoko, yes that lady was offside but I like her guts, telling ED that she managed to hold the bull by its balls kwete zvna Ramaphosa who goes to complain about Zimbabwe to America instead of coming to Zim Directly. Yes sanctions are there and should be removed but they have to go but we have no capacity to remove them, why not putting effort in what we can like arresting corruption, crippling nepotism and avoiding human rights abuses as well as doing free and fair elections.
I have now seen that it’s a problem to give vice presidents the presidency, I supported Ruto even in the ConCourt but I am now seeing I wasted my support. The newest president in African president has joined other AU leaders in talking about sanctions. Please Mr Ruto, tell your fellow president what needs to be done for Zimbabwe to be better, if he doesn’t know why can’t he just shut up or come here ndizomuudza. After all he can also use Zupco kupinda nepaChimusana coming to see Mapombi kkkk.
But this guy called Hichilema seem to be doing better for his country but is he afraid to tell Mnangagwa the truth, after all they are in the same choto since zvine mazera. He is a neighbouring president he should advice umwe wake. Zvino mmm, all three guys are afraid to tell the truth. I wish dai Julius atori zvake president, he is the one who always speak his mind kkkkk. Zvino if they are afraid like this who will tell him the truth vakomana, who?
Ko iko kuno kuChitima ndakaseka zvangu ndanzwa kune vanhu vaitaura pamusoro pekukwidzwa mabhazi kwana Chauruka, ko ivo pavanoinda kwaLukashenko vachitenga maGolden Dragon kuti tiashandise munenge makanyarara wani. As in our case, I just hope and trust that Fredricke Foreign affairs would tell his boss ED how it feels to be in the bus at the expense of the heavily guarded luxurious motorcades. Kkkkk ndakangoseka hangu kuti saka security dzakakwanawo here mubhazi nevarindwi vadzo or vakangonzi muri safe vakabwandira asi nechemumoyo vaine mapundu ehasha. Ko iyo America ndicho chibaba ka unozviramba kuti wakaita sei?Dai aakauyawo uku Putin aikwana muCoach nevamwe but haana kuzvikwanisa sezvo vakavharirana naZelenskiy paKyiv apo.
Please allow me to express my frustration to the manner in which Marry has and is being treated despite her deteriorating health. Haaa munyika muno utungamiri uhu henenge hwakangamwa hukarutsa nemoyo nekutidai vachiri nayo moyo they should have done something to save the soul in distress. Yes she may have a case to answer but don’t you think she has suffered enough? Yaaa she has suffered and mbori nenyayaya yei chaizvo if it is ever there? it also reminds me of Mai Sikhala? I hear she was arrested and later given free bail. Don’t you think she has suffered enough nekuvarirwa kwemurume wake for such a long time? Again iye Sikhala haasati asuffer zvikakwana here? We all know he is innocent and his is just being persecuted for speaking out the truth? This is what we went to war for, yes I died for this country so that we are not imprisoned for exercising their rights, ndikzvifunga ndochema nxaaa.
Guys, I hear some people are sweating and losing sleep as they fight tooth and nail to re-introduce the Green Bomber Service or NYS kkk. Haaa even if the so-called Patriotic Bill sails through, we do not need the re-introduction of Border Gezi initiated useless programme which only serves to revoke sad memories in the minds of those who suffered at their hands during election times. Where on this Planet Earth is one taught to love? If patriotism refers to one’s love for own country, then how can someone be forced to show affection? Of course being brainwashed and indoctrinated with the useless ideas and ideologies that are prevalent at that kind of training does not make any sense to the youth of today.
After all makatombozvizama mukaona kusashanda kwazvo ndiko kusaka ndamboti chagwinyirwa neZanu bodo shuwa. You have tried to impart propaganda to the tertiary institutions learners by calling the useless programme with different names like citizenship education, national strategic studies but it serve no purpose. Patriots should be bred through a better system of governance not izvi nekuti chekudzidza chaicho kubva kwamuri hapana saka zvitori nani kusiyana nazvo mutidzikamire. Ivo vakazvitanga ana Border Gezi vakasazotsakatiswa here vonenerwa kunzi voda kubvisa hurumende nechisimba vachishandisa programme iyoyi.
Ko kune vakainda through it, what are the benefits if you realized any other staffing government department and ministries with incompetent workers on the pretext they are patriots. If you have any desire to do so, then just implement the thing at party level and avoid undue influence to those unwilling to be demonized with corruption and senseless spirit of false nationalism.
I heard Chief Nhema was at it again recently when he invited Jongwe Masuka to his homestead on a Saturday to witness how he fines people kkkk. Hanzi huyai muone ndichiripisa vanhu and mochema imi kkkkk. Ndezvekudanira vanhu izvozvo nxaa. This is only a reflection of how chiefs use their power to force people to vote for someome whom they don’t want. Five Million votes dzichasvinwa dzikabuda kwaNhema uko kkkk. anyway, sanhu haritemi dombo Ranga, one day zvichakuwana but iye Jongwe wacho ndiye upiwo, hanzi the government will will give 35 000 villages 35 000 zvikotora kkk. Vanhu kuoomberera zvakadaro, why not look for areas suitable for goat production and concentrate there pakuti every villge? Ko kana rikafa, what if its stolen, zvimwe zvinhu tangai mabvunzawo isu ana mapombi tinoonera musati mangoita. So the Gotora will be on tracking system servicing which goats. This is just another dummy being sold to the rural people or it’s a sign of running short of new propaganda ideas? Where is Dr Stop it when all this nonsense is being said?
Ko where is this lady uyu who was allegedly raped by the who cabinet, ari kupi Susan Mutami. Ko nyaya yake yakazodii zviya? What happened to the case against the president? What happened to her giving a speech at UN? But ndakambotaura hangu kuti this Susan is a Baba Jukwa scam vamwe vakti ndinopenga, now akati zii, let’s wait for elections muchamuona ouya hake I tell you kkkk, kana pane akashing please tell the president kuti hokoyo naSusan Mhosva hairovi kkkk, hokoyo naSusan kkkk.
I really miss Dr Stop It greet her for me please, I miss Mphoko mukomana wezvitiyo Mphoko. I hear ED is lobbying SADC leaders to boycott December USA-Africa summit coz iye haadiweko, Mboko imboko!!!
African leaders, please tell our president the truth
WCoZ stirs sexual harassment awareness drive
Yeukai Munetsi
Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ) last week hosted a sexual harassment awareness workshop at Gweru Polytechnic in order to sensitize women on their rights.
The event was graced by Musasa Project and Zimbabwe Women Lawyers Association (ZWALA) and Ebenezer Trust
Speaking at the engagement meeting Msasa Project Midlands Coordinator Agnes Muuya described the different forms of sexual harassment and how they have a negative psychological impact on women.
“Sexual harassment comes in many forms. There is sexual, verbal and physical harassment. Sexual violence is rape or forced sexual intercourse without consent. All these forms of harassment can occur at school, work, home, church and even when walking.
“Despite women not being the only ones to experience sexual harassment, they are affected more by quid pro quo where a lecturer or a person in authority offers to give a higher grade in exchange for sex,” said Munetsi.
Ebenezer Trust director Florence Guzha explained how myths contribute to sexual harassment of women.
“There is a common myth that we have to abandon, that harassment is only related to men harassing women as there is also women to women harassment.
“We have to demystify myths surrounding our culture of Chiramu that expose women to sexual harassment by their relatives and we also have to demystify that those who face harassment would have provoked the perpetrators.
“Women should be firm when dealing with sexual harassment. An empowered and well informed woman rarely succumb to abuse. Going to your boyfriend’s house does not mean he has the right to rape you,” said Guzha.
A ZWALA member Clara Chikohora emphasized the need for the government to criminalize sexual harassment in all forms.
“In Zimbabwean law, there is no definition for sexual harassment, it is only found in the Labour Act defined as unwanted and unwelcome behaviours of a sexual nature that interfere with the right to receive equal opportunities by requesting sexual favours.
“There is need for specific policies that clearly define sexual harassment and also for institutions to make students aware of the sexual harassment policies constantly,” said Chikohora
For all those in need for assistance for sexual harassment or gender based violence contact
Musasa toll free lines:
08080074 (buddie)
08010074 (NetOne)
073100 72-4 (Telecel)
WhatsApp :0775442300
Adult rape clinic: +263242793572
Youth Advocacy: 393
Tzu Chi Foundation commissions two classroom blocks at Murerekwa School
Valentine Makufa
Tzu Chi Foundation commissioned two classroom blocks at Murerekwa Primary School on September 14 in Ward 8 under Chief Ndanga in Zaka Central constituency.
The Taiwana-based charity organization (Tzu Chi Foundation) constructed the two blocks as a rescue to the effects of Cyclone Idai which hit the country in early 2019.
Zaka Central Member of Parliament Davison Svuure welcomed all who attended the commissioning and appreciated Tzu Chi Foundation for the two classroom blocks built at the school.
“I welcome you all to this important event as we gather here to celebrate this milestone development that will go a long way in improving the education sector in our area.
“Let me take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Tzu Chi Foundation for coming to our rescue after Cyclone Idai destroyed our infrastructure and the two blocks will bring a huge sigh of relief to the school as learners get a spacious learning environment,” said Svuure.
Tzu Chi Foundation country director Chin Chai Chu said he was touched when he came to know that the school was affected by the cyclone and did not have enough classrooms and decided to inform the funder to build the two blocks.
“When I heard about the school from one of our volunteers, Volunteer Mutava I paid a visit to the school and I saw the damage inflicted by the cyclone. I informed our funder Master Cheng Yen. I also saw that the second building was about to collapse since the wooden trusses had been eaten away by ants .
I told our funder again that two blocks needed to be built for the safety of children because they are our future,” said Chu.
Parents whose children attend Murerekwa Primary School were very happy for the development and appreciated the work of Tzu Chi Foundation as it offer relief to overcrowded classrooms.
Zaka District Development Coordinator (DDC) Memory Dhliwayo who was standing in for Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira (the guest of honor) expressed gratitude to Tzu Chi saying the foundation had played a role in the President’s vision of ‘Leaving No One and No Place Behind’.
“I would like to express gratitude to our friends from Taiwan for this noble gesture that will go a long way in helping realize the vision by President Emmerson Mnangagwa of leaving no one and no place behind,” said Dhliwayo.
Schools Inspector for Zaka District Jemias Bangamuseve standing in for District Schools Inspector Samson Chidzurira also thanked government for allowing the foundation to help the school as it was struggling to cope with the damage caused by Cyclone Idai.
“We are actually happy at government intervention to allow the coming on board of other partners who have come to our rescue after the disaster of Cyclone Idai in 2019 which damaged two of our blocks and it made our normal operation to a stuck and we could not cope. The involvement of local organizations and the supportive community gives us pride as a ministry,” said Bangamuseve.
Chief Ndanga born Wilson Makono thanked the Tzu Chi Foundation saying it has come as a rescue to Murerekwa Primary School and also challenged ward 13 councilor Manfred Mada to include the school and the Four Miles Clinic on the water project..
“Tzu Chi Foundation has come when we were in time of need due to the disaster we recently faced. We appreciate organizations like these who are ready to help those in need. Now that that the school has more blocks, I am challenging you Councilor Mada as illustrated by the children who performed their play that you provide the school with safe water. When you lay water pipes for the clinic, please extend the project to the school so that children will get clean and safe water,” said Chief Ndanga.
Tzu Chi Foundation is a Buddhist charity foundation originating in Taiwan whose founder is Cheng Yen (76). In Zimbabwe it is headquartered in Harare and has volunteers in different provinces.
Its main aims are charity, providing medicine for the sick and also educating the underprivileged. The foundation has been delivering food relief to alleviate the effects of drought in Zimbabwe.
Mutare Summer Fest around the corner
Branton Matondo
All roads lead to Mutare Summer Fest set for September 24 as the show comes at a time when Sunrise band is about to launch it’s much awaited track titled Unotsva.
The Chipaz Promotion and C- Jay Motors-sponsored fiesta will be held at Mutare Motoring Club from as early as 2pm.
TellZim got in touch with Sunrise band lead guitarist Joseph Makureya who confirmed Sunrise band’s inclusion at the much-anticipated Summer Fest saying it’s an extra honour to be part of such an award winning cast.
“Yes, on the September 24 we will performing on the same stage with Jah Prayzah, Mambo Dhuterere and Freeman among other artists. We as Sunrise band are greatly humbled to have such an experience,” said Makureya.
Other artists who are expected to ravel fans are Caff, Mistrey, Godfather Templeman, Selector Tanaman and Shamie D.
Sunrise band which consists of Mutare born and bred members has been talk of the town with their performances at Bako.
However, band leader Joseph Makureya said the market for jazz or afro jazz artists is confined and extra work is needed to make a mark.
“I am so happy with the support that we have been receiving from our fans especially performances that we do at Bako. Our genre is based on jazz but we have spiced it with some afro and reggae manyika. In Mutare it’s not easy but we keep on pushing.
Because of Covid-19, we had to slow down the pace but easing of restrictions has given us an opportunity to start afresh and push on,” said Makureya.
On September 9, Sunrise band was part of a show that featured Zimdancehall chanter Hwindi President at Bako.
The newly formed Sunrise band consists of eight members namely Robert Chatsauka (engineer), Joseph Makureya (main vocals and lead guitarist), Wallace Kambira (backing vocalist), Kelly Makureya, Mercyline Zarenyara, Tamiswa Chirema (first keyboardist), Benji Mapurada (second keyboardist) and Agrippa Shadaya (drums).
Former Mighty Warriors gaffer eyes sport science revolution
Branton Matondo
Shadreck Mlaudzi, well known in the football realms for leading the Mighty Warriors to their maiden Olympic games in 2016 at Rio de Jenairo, Brazil is pushing to change physical education and sporting science curriculums in primary, secondary and tertiary educational institutions, a project that is already on its foot.
Physical education and sport has been epitomized by ministries in charge of different educational structures from primary, secondary and tertiary as noted by their inclusion in curricular and learning programmes.
The former Mighty Warriors gaffer who is based in Bulawayo told this publication that both physical education and sport science are key to each and every educational structure hence the move to modernize it for the better.
“Physical exercise and literacy is a lifelong healthy habit which will ultimately lead to reduced medical bills in families and the country. Physical education is the base of all national sporting aspirations. It is the springboard for TI (Talent Identification). Through physical education and sports at schools, critical foundations for sports, basic motor functions are embedded which shape professional sports.
“Sport science has emerged as the leading branch of sports performance. It informs and guides models, decision making and in a nutshell, benchmarks have been set by leading nations such as USA, China and South Africa,” said Mlaudzi.
Mlaudzi has already published a piece of sporting literature dubbed ‘Anima Sana In Corpore Sano: Physical Education & Sports For Secondary Schools’ that is the first of its kind to prepare students for sport science related examinations.
The 21 chaptered book narrows down on sporting technical insights that are supported by Blooms Taxonomy (structured typically of CAMBRIDGE/ZIMSEC style).
According to Mlaudzi, the book is categorized into 10 classes that are Foundations of Sports, Body Systems and Performance, Fundamentals of Fitness, Testing, Measuring and Evaluation, Training Methods, Training Programme, Game skills, Sports Clubs and Patenting and finally event management.
He added that the book is available at established literature centers across the country also pointing out that reception of his work has been good so far as it seeks to achieve the leveled goal.
“The book is massive, it equips one with knowledge and understanding of physiological differences between men and women, the difference in mental faculties with huge bearing in coaching. The target is all secondary schools, tertiary institutions as trainers of teachers. Yes, the response has been slow but good. The book is available at Macedonia projects and Heritage Bookshops nationwide,” he added.
The literature covers four sporting codes which is unique in the way it imparts knowledge.
“The book is set out to be the first of its kind in which content coverage is structured to impart new attitudes, values and knowledgeable young learners who in turn value the importance of sports science in elite athlete training and at grassroots levels. ASICS is the premier and ultimate resource book that will aid the learner, teacher, sports practitioners and health practitioners invest less time on research as material brings a breath of fresh air into the teaching methods and approaches to athletic training. The stand out feature of this textbook, is the depth coverage of game skills. Its unique and compelling detail of sampling four sports codes in each game skill sets it apart,” he said.
Mlaudzi who divorced from coaching since 2017 said he will only resume with the trade when a lucrative offer comes.
“When the right offer comes, I will gladly assume responsibilities. Ambitious clubs can always come through for negotiations,” added the former teacher.
Devolution funds: 8 months gone, funds yet to be disbursed
…Beneficiaries struggle to access funds as projects lie idle
Emmanuel Chitsika
Devolution funding adopted by the Central government of Zimbabwe to ensure national development through allocation of approved budgets to lower tiers of government has always sounded a noble idea if the approach is holistically implemented.
However, the disbursement of the funds from State to local authorities’ coffers has and continues to be the major obstacle affecting the possible success of the programme.
So many projects earmarked under the funding are bearing the brunt of lack of proper mechanisms that should allow smooth flow of the funds with some already started while others are yet to kick start.
Masvingo City Council has some of its critical projects supposed to be funded by Devolution funds seemingly progressing at a slower pace with missing of completion deadlines becoming a key feature.
The legacy Mucheke Trunk Sewer that started over a decade ago is one of those key projects suffering from late disbursement of funds and so is the new landfill at Cambria Farm being another major highlight for the City Fathers.
During last full council meeting on August 1, the local authority made revelations that of the total ZW$ 253 million, Masvingo city had received only ZW$ 50 million.
Masvingo City’s acting Finance Director Danister Jori confirmed the issue though he pointed out that after a series of meetings with the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, they were promised to get another batch of ZW$ 120 million this year.
However, it is the directive by the Treasury Chiefs to councils to revisit their priority areas and adjust that point to the conclusion that no full payments would be made for the year 2022.
Contacted to clarify government’s position on the late disbursements, Masvingo Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Dr Jefta Sakupwanya referred questions to the Economic Development Director for Masvingo Clever Chingwara who said the ministry of Finance and Economic Development could be in a better position to respond since they are in charge of the national.
He said the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works could be another port of call to seek comment since in case of challenges, local authorities may seek redress through parent ministry.
“Concerning that issue, the funds go directly from ministry of finance to local authorities, so the former might have more details pertaining to that. Ideally, the local authorities submit their reports to the Provincial Secretary, but when it comes to when the funds are disbursed, the treasury is responsible.
“What we may have are the reports of projects undertaken and progress from local authorities. The issues are channelled through the ministry of local government because our office was shifted to the Office of President and Cabinet (OPC). We are not privy to the reasons behind the ‘delays’ though we have heard of such delays and thus ministry of finance have the proper answer while the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) may provide details on how the delays may affect their works,” said Chingwara.
A survey carried out by this publication at most local authorities revealed that there was limited activity in terms of progress on devolution funded projects as delayed disbursement of funds stall works with some contracted companies shelving operations due delayed payment of their dues.
Some councils have on a number of occasions deferred projects for a given year to the next because of lack of funds while at times they revert to internal funds to fund the projects.
The development is also seeing most local authorities only engaging in low cost projects since most of them are now relying on the funds rather than internal funds.
Masvingo RDC embarks on business unusual stakeholder engagement approach
TellZim Reporter
Masvingo Rural District Council (RDC) has embarked on a business unusual approach to stakeholder involvement programmes as they target to educate ordinary people regarding key processes that lead to the provision of quality service delivery.
Masvingo RDC is probably the only council in the country that is working closely with traditional leaders to disseminate information on budgetary processes and how non-payment of taxes by ordinary villagers may lead to poor service delivery.
Speaking at Chief Mugabe traditional court where village heads gathered to interact with the council leadership recently, Masvingo RDC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Martin Mubviro said the council was committed to the provision of quality service delivery.
Mubviro pleaded with village heads to pass on the message that council performs better if the ordinary people play their part in as far as payment of taxes is concerned.
“We are pleased to be addressing a unique constituency which is that of traditional leaders. Our engagement with you must not end today because we value your contributions towards the development of this district. We are therefore, giving you feedback towards council operations so that you pass on the message to ordinary villagers in your various jurisdictions. At the end, no one must be left behind,” said Mubviro.
Village heads who gathered for the event appreciated the candid discussions as acknowledged that they learnt a lot regarding council operations.
Council Chairman for the district Councillor Mangena took the opportunity to explain to the village heads the projects that are being implemented by the government in the district under devolution.
Mangena further encouraged villagers to work closely with their elected leaders in identifying areas that need immediate intervention by the council.
“Don’t leave your councillors when planning or coming up with projects that you want council to implement. Involve elected leaders so that they bring your wish list to our chambers for deliberations,” said Mangena.
Chief Mugabe thanked council officials for being ‘brave’ enough to come down to the people and give feedback.
“This was a beautiful meeting…first of its own kind. I will continue to invite you here and have these kinds of candid discussions. The meeting has become an eye opener to everyone and the village heads are going back home empowered with information.
“I also want to urge council officials to take note of all the things highlighted by village heads and address all the things that need your attention. This is how we can develop our area,” said Chief Mugabe.
The meeting was supported with TellZim in partnership with Zimcodd.
Masvingo records decrease in teen pregnancies-ZNFPC
…As world celebrates World Contraception Day
Beverly Bizeki
As the world is set to commemorate World Contraception Day on September 26, Masvingo will join the rest of the globe with a unique celebration following a realization of preliminary decrease in teenage pregnancies in three of its seven districts namely Zaka, Bikita and Chiredzi.
The results released by Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) office in Masvingo shows that there is a notable decrease in cases of teenage pregnancies with Bikita that recorded 2085 cases in 2019 reducing to 1200 in 2021, Chiredzi had 1980 in 2019 and 1300 in 2021 and Zaka has seen a decrease from 1329 in 2019 to 1200 in 2021 all pointing to a downward trend for the province.
ZNFPC Provincial marketing and Communications Officer Herbert Chikosi said efforts from ZNFPC and partners like Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, SolidaMed and Ministry of Health and Child Care had helped realize positive results.
He added that this year’s commemorations will be held in Mount Darwin under the theme ‘Contraception: it’s your life, it’s your responsibility’.
“The theme for this year is Contraception: it’s your life it’s your responsibility. We are still placing emphasis on the idea of ‘Kids by Choice not by chance’ and that every pregnancy should count.
“It is our commitment as Zimbabwe to ensure that we stay within the vision that every pregnancy is wanted. It’s our commitment to improve awareness of contraception with more emphasis on enabling young people to make informed decisions on sexual reproductive health,” said Chikosi.
He said the thrust for Masvingo province in terms of the world contraception day is amplifying issues around child marriages and teenage pregnancies.
“As a province, our effort has been to fight child marriages and teenage pregnancies. There is a significant improvement in terms of access to contraceptives amongst young people.
“We were targeting four districts namely Zaka, Bikita and Chiredzi as well as Masvingo from 2021-2022 and based on statistics, there was an improvement in terms of access of Long Act Reversible Contraceptives- (LARCs) with the support from SolidaMed. We have also pushed for the girl child to be in school,” said Chikosi.
Culture however remains a challenge in the fight against teenage pregnancies as unmarried girls have a challenge in accessing contraceptives following myths and misconceptions that girls cannot use contraceptives.
GRRA encourages youth to play an active role in politics
Yeukai Munetsi
Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association (GRRA) last week urged youth to be active and claim positions in their respective political parties in order to have their needs addressed.
Speaking at the engagement event GRRA director Cornelia Selipiwe raised concerns over how service delivery issues were being politicized thereby hindering development.
“Youth should play an active role in politics by being affiliated to a political party that works with what they want. Decisions are done along political lines hence there is need for youth in political parties to influence service delivery issues.
“Young people should avoid being whipped in the wrong decisions because of refreshments. Why do we have Gweru city council spending three months without collecting bins when youth are there? Why are youth failing to demand for these service delivery issues? Let’s wake up and be involved,” said Selipiwe.
He further encouraged youth to avoid being used by politicians for the wrong reasons.
Gweru Urban Member of Parliament Brian Dube said it was only through active participation that youth can demand efficient service delivery.
“Only people who have influence are responded to at a personal level hence as a young persons, make yourselves significant by being active,” said Dube.
Juliet Mucharozva, a youth said that there was limited accessibility to service delivery information.
“Due to the fact that youth are not active and not willing to openly align themselves with political parties they want, there is limited access to information as evidenced by the ward council information dissemination methods and the billing systems which are not well delivered and explained.
“Council is to be blame for youth’s involvement into drug and substance abuse as they have destroyed recreational centres that assisted youth by occupying their minds with activities.
“The law requires that 10% of land be preserved for recreational facilities,” she added.
Meanwhile Gweru Deputy Mayor councillor Cleopas Shiri promised that issues raised were a matter of concern and were going to be addressed.
“I have noted all these issues that youth have raised and I assure you that they will be looked into and be addressed.
“We currently bought three high lift pumps that will lead to an increase from the 37 mega litres a day to 63 mega litres. With this improvement, we are hoping that areas facing water challenges will soon be having water as well,” said Shiri.
Chivi RDC set to commission Bwanya clinic
TellZim reporter
Chivi Rural District Council (RDC) is set to commission the recently completed Bwanya Clinic in ward 3 with the community saying they can no longer wait to access services from the health centre as there was no other clinic in the area.
This was revealed at a breakfast meeting organized by TellZim News in partnership with Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (ZIMCODD) between local leadership and the local authority.
Chivi RDC chairperson Godfrey Mukungunugwa said they want to put more pressure to the authorities so that the clinic is opened as soon as possible to avoid vandalism and theft of infrastructure.
“We were urged by President Mnangagwa to do 80 percent development and 20 or less politics. So we need to apply pressure to the authorities so that the clinic is opened next month because if we fail, termites will eat away the doors and thieves can also vandalise and steal solar panels and or vandalise other materials,” said Mukungunugwa.
He promised to do his best saying the local authority was equally worried by the delays in the opening of the clinic which is set to benefit the entire ward with 22 villages.
Chivi RDC Human Resource and Administration officer Archbald Ncube said all the necessary applications were done and were just waiting for the green light from the responsible authorities to open the facility.
“The clinic has to be opened as a matter of urgency, all registration procedures were done, the issue of manpower was applied for to the responsible ministry and it is our hope that we get feedback soon that is why we are having this meeting here to see how we can prepare for the day,” said Ncube.
He went on to urge the community to continue playing a role to make sure they continue working together until the clinic is officially opened.
“All the necessary work has been done but the yard has shrubs and stones which need to be cleared. And it is your (community) duty. Our engineers will be here grading roads, so we need your cooperation,” added Ncube.
Muzvidziwa village head Charles Muzvidziwa said the community cannot wait anymore for the commissioning saying a number of pregnant women were delivering in scotch-carts on their way to Madamombe clinic which is more than 15km away from the area.
“Work is being done in homes and we want our women to deliver here than going to Madamombe with some delivering on the road,” said Muzvidziwa.
The clinic has been completed and there is running water as well as solar powered energy while staff houses and toilets as well as the incinerator are in place hence only awaits commissioning.
Ward three councillor Lazarus Mauto appreciated the contribution of the community towards the completion of the clinic and said he hopes the unity remains there for sake of future projects.
The clinic was constructed by Chivi RDC using devolution funds with the community providing labour.