By Violet Mashonga
Makonde Rural District Council (RDC) has adopted its 2026 budget following a special full council meeting held on the 13th, unveiling a financial plan shaped by economic headwinds and a renewed focus on improving service delivery.
The meeting also marked a key milestone for the local authority with the procurement of a dedicated vehicle for the planning department—its first since establishment.
Officials said the acquisition is expected to enhance efficiency in processing staff applications and strengthen overall service delivery.
Presenting the budget, the Finance Committee Chairperson said the 2026 financial plan was crafted in line with Treasury Budget Call Circulars and Local Authorities Circulars.
The budget seeks to address challenges experienced in 2025, a year characterised by high inflation, currency instability, and a significant decline in revenue collection.
As of September 2025, collection efficiency had dropped to 21.37%.
The council reported receiving no devolution funds against a projected ZWG$72,636,600.34, while only ZWG$3,532,613.70 was disbursed by ZINARA from an expected ZWG$10,967,151.19.
Despite these setbacks, Makonde RDC achieved several milestones in 2025. The planning department drilled 65 boreholes and rehabilitated 15 others, constructed toilets in communal wards, completed construction of Magogi Clinic—now awaiting commissioning—and established a Junior Council to enhance youth participation in governance.
The council also improved governance systems through the submission of its 2024 IPSAS Transitional Statements.
Revenue was largely driven by internal sources, which contributed 92.56% of collections, predominantly from development levies. However, non-payment from A2 farmers continued to weigh on overall performance, although collections from A1 farmers showed improvement.
Economic hardships further eroded residents’ ability to pay levies, constraining service delivery. The council also faced regulatory limitations after Statutory Instrument 75 of 2025 (Mining By-Law) was declared ultra vires, curtailing its mandate in mining regulation. Additionally, S.I. 170 of 2025 introduced compulsory minimum service delivery standards for all councils.
To strengthen its financial position in 2026, Makonde RDC plans to intensify use of ICT platforms such as ZikiMall and MobiCol, engage policymakers and traditional leadership on revenue mobilisation, pursue litigation against bad debtors, apply the Valuation Roll for rates collection in Mhangura and Murereka, and sell stands in fast-growing townships.
The council projects total revenue for 2026 at ZWG$310,956,655.68 (using an exchange rate of 32), with land development levies expected to contribute 23%. Priority areas include water supply, sanitation, road maintenance, health, education, and improved governance.
Council Chairman Misheck Nyarubero commended the acquisition of the new planning department vehicle, describing it as a vital asset that would speed up response times to staff applications. He urged officials to maintain it properly to ensure longevity.
CEO Dr. Paradzai Munyede applauded councillors for championing policies that align with the national Vision 2030 agenda and strengthen service delivery.
The 2026 budget underscores Makonde RDC’s resilience and its commitment to community empowerment, infrastructure development, and navigating the district through persistent economic challenges.
About Author
