By Violet Mashonga
Murereka – In a bold stride toward improved service delivery, Makonde Rural District Council (RDC) has commissioned a fleet of new equipment acquired through devolution funds, signaling a new era of development for the district.
At a colourful ceremony held in Murereka, the council unveiled an impressive array of machinery, including two tractors, a tipper truck, a backhoe loader, a fire tender, and a borehole drilling rig. Adding to the occasion, 26 motorbikes were officially handed over to councillors to strengthen their mobility and engagement in communities.
The event drew key government officials and community leaders, including Council Chairperson Cllr Misheck Nyarubero, Hon. Marian Chombo, the Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution (represented by Josphat Jaji), and Hon. S. Ziyambi, Member of Parliament for the area.
Empowering Communities through Local Action
Speaking at the event, Cllr Nyarubero expressed gratitude to the central government for upholding the principles of devolution, which allocate 5% of national revenue to local authorities.
“This investment shows the power of decentralization. These tools will allow us to address pressing challenges like road rehabilitation, waste management, and access to clean water,” he said.
He also emphasized the council’s pledge to ensure that every cent of devolution funding is used transparently and for the benefit of residents.
Devolution in Action
Representing Minister Chombo, Josphat Jaji praised Makonde RDC for effectively leveraging devolution funds to transform service delivery.
“This is the essence of the Second Republic’s vision—Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo (a nation is built by its citizens). We commend the council for aligning its initiatives with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and prioritizing the needs of the people,” Jaji said.
He urged councillors and council staff to safeguard the equipment and ensure it is used for public good, not personal gain.
A Step Towards a Better Makonde
Hon. S. Ziyambi also applauded the council, promising continued support for development projects in the district. He noted that enhanced service delivery would not only benefit residents but also stimulate economic activities in the predominantly farming community.
The newly commissioned equipment is already being put to work—tractors are now collecting refuse in Lions Den and Mhangura, while the backhoe and tipper truck are set to begin work on rural roads. The borehole rig is expected to tackle persistent water shortages in outlying areas.
Residents Welcome the Progress
Local residents, like Modester Mubairo of Murereka Township, expressed appreciation for the visible impact of council efforts.
“It’s encouraging to see our council using resources for our benefit. We hope to see more clean water and better roads soon,” Mubairo said.
Looking Ahead
The commissioning marks a pivotal moment in Makonde RDC’s mission to deliver people-centered governance and infrastructure. With the tools now in hand, the council is poised to accelerate development and build a stronger, more resilient community.
As the devolution agenda gains traction, Makonde’s success story could serve as a blueprint for other rural councils across Zimbabwe.
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