MATABELELAND South residents must prioritise economic development instead of party politics, Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Albert Nguluvhe has said.
In a summary report following his interactive meetings with stakeholders of the seven districts of the vast province, Nguluvhe emphasised that unity of purpose is a pillar for economic development.
That, he said, should take precedence over political differences.
His comments follow deep divisions over development agendas particularly in Beitbridge town where residents engage in fierce social media fights over developmental issues.
Beitbridge Town is dominated by Citizens Coalition for Change councillors and the development of the town of 60 000 people has been adversely affected by infighting in the opposition party where there have been several attempts to unseat mayor Peter Pirato Mafuta.
The fight has stifled most council debates at the expense of development.
Nguluvhe held stakeholder meetings in Beitbridge, Bulilima, Matobo, Mangwe, Gwanda, Insiza and Mzingwane districts to learn of each district’s economic potential.
“Collaboration across political affiliations is crucial for achieving development goals. We need a bottom-to-top approach. Development initiatives should originate from local communities. Both community members and government entities must work together,” he said.
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Nguluvhe said land should be allocated by traditional leaders in Matabeleland South while castigating land barons as unhealthy for development.
“We must report immediately when we see land barons and this is necessary,” he said.
To achieve maximum output, Nguluvhe called on legislators and councillors to engage communities and be accountable to the people.
He said Matabeleland South was among Zimbabwe’s top gold producers accounting for at least 40% of national production which should jump-start its move towards an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 as envisaged by government.
As the provincial minister, Nguluvhe’s role involves overseeing government programmes and policies at the provincial level, formulating plans to drive development in the province.
He is expected to ensure cooperation among different government ministries and other development agencies in the province.
Nguluvhe was appointed minister by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in April this year replacing Evelyn Ndlovu, who was reassigned as Environment, Climate and Wildlife minister.
