By Elvis Dumba
Lions Den – The Makonde Rural District Council (RDC) has received a major boost in its service delivery capabilities following the commissioning of new equipment funded through government devolution funds.
The equipment, which includes tractors, a tipper truck, a backhoe loader, a fire tender, a borehole drilling rig, and motorcycles for all 26 councillors, was officially commissioned by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Marian Chombo.
The Minister was represented at the event by Provincial Secretary Josphat Jaji.
Hon. Chombo praised the transformative impact of devolution funds, describing them as a game-changer for local governance.
“The Second Republic’s mantra, ‘Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo’ (A nation is built by its own people), is clearly reflected in this development by the Council as it works to fulfill the aspirations of the National Development Strategy 1,” she said.
She noted that the new machinery is already being put to use: tractors are collecting refuse twice a week in Lions Den and Mhangura; the tipper truck and backhoe loader are supporting road rehabilitation efforts; and the borehole drilling rig is expected to ease water shortages across the Makonde District.
Hon. Chombo also emphasized the importance of safeguarding public assets, urging council officials to ensure the equipment is used strictly for the benefit of residents.
“This equipment must not be abused. It is here to improve the lives of people, not to serve personal interests,” she said, adding that President Emmerson Mnangagwa has remained committed to the welfare of local authorities and councillors.
During the handover ceremony held in Murereka Township, motorbikes were distributed to all councillors to improve mobility and service delivery within their respective wards.
Makonde RDC Chairperson, Councillor Misheck Nyarubero, expressed gratitude to the government for implementing the constitutional mandate that allocates 5% of national revenue to local authorities.
“We are grateful to the residents of Makonde and the government for making these resources available. These tools will enhance our ability to deliver quality services,” he said.
Council Chief Executive Officer, Paradzai Munyede, echoed the sentiment, saying the equipment would greatly improve infrastructure and basic services in the district’s farming communities.
“Our residents rely heavily on a good road network for agriculture. This equipment will allow us to maintain those roads, drill boreholes for safe water, and help councillors travel more efficiently,” Munyede said.
Residents also welcomed the development. Modester Mubairo, a resident of Murereka Township, commended the RDC for investing in meaningful projects.
“As residents, we feel reassured when we see our contributions being used to improve services. This is a step in the right direction,” she said.
With the new equipment now in use, Makonde RDC looks set to scale up its delivery of key services and improve living standards across the district.
About Author
