THE Hwange Local Board (HLB) is pushing ahead with key development projects aimed at improving infrastructure and service delivery.
However, the council acknowledged that some of the projects are bogged down by financial constraints, further extending their completion deadlines.
HLB Chairperson, Councillor Peterson Ncube, said while some progress had been made, funding constraints remain a major challenge.
“Funding issues may cause some delays in completing these projects within the first quarter, but we are confident that most of them will be finalised by the end of the second quarter,” Ncube said.
“These initiatives include the construction of new vending stalls, the refurbishment of the local soccer stadium, the completion of a state-of-the-art flea market, repairs to the service delivery fleet, and the maintenance of streetlights.”
HLB has selected a contractor to construct 60 standardised vending stalls at Empumalanga Terminus to provide safer, designated trading spaces for informal vendors.
The project also includes the refurbishment of public toilets that have been non-functional for a decade.
“This is to ensure order in informal trading and address health and safety concerns arising from vending in undesignated areas like roadsides and residential zones,” Ncube said.
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He said the HLB has also embarked on a fleet maintenance programme to improve service delivery, following years of inadequate vehicles that have delayed sewer maintenance, road repairs, and refuse collection.
“Most of the fleet is expected to be operational by the end of the first quarter, and we are developing a long-term strategy for fleet maintenance and procurement,” Ncube added.
The council is also prioritising the refurbishment of Nengasha Soccer Stadium, with the first phase of the project expected to be completed in the second quarter
“The first phase includes the erection of a perimeter fence, the construction of a dressing room, installation of a water source, and creation of a technical seating area along the touchline,” Ncube said.
“This project aligns with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works’ directive to allocate 7% of our 2025 budget to the rehabilitation of sports infrastructure.”
The Empumalanga Flea Market, currently 60% complete, is another key project aimed at boosting local business and employment.
“This will ensure the successful completion of the flea market, which is important for economic activity and revenue generation,” Ncube added.
“We do not want it to become an underutilised ‘white elephant,’ as the government has cautioned against unfinished projects.”
Following the successful restoration of tower lights in Empumalanga last year, the council has set its sights on rehabilitating streetlights in Chibondo and Baobab suburbs.
“We plan to repair 50 streetlights in these areas using funds from the Zimbabwe National Road Administration.
“Additionally, we are exploring a public-private partnership to repair another 50 streetlights,” he added.
To enhance efficiency, the council will install day/night control switches at Empumalanga tower lights.
“Public safety is a major concern, especially in high-density areas like Empumalanga. Poor lighting has contributed to an increase in crime, including muggings, so this project is essential,” he added.
He claimed the HLB has made progress in financial management, with revenue collection improving from 22% in 2024 to 47% in 2025.
“This is still below the national average of 60-65%, but it is an encouraging sign,” Ncube said.
“We recently met with the local business community to address service delivery concerns, and we are continuously working to improve revenue collection.”
The council also completed a general valuation roll last year, providing a more accurate basis for charging property rates.
The Empumalanga West housing project, initiated in 2014 to provide affordable housing for over 2,000 residents, has faced significant delays due to funding issues.
“The Ministry of Housing and Social Amenities has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the project this year,” Ncube stated.
“This aligns with the National Development Strategy’s goal of ensuring secure and dignified housing for every citizen.”
Despite financial hurdles, HLB remains optimistic about completing its key projects within the coming months.
“Through strategic planning, collaboration, and a commitment to service delivery, we are dedicated to enhancing infrastructure, improving public safety, and promoting sustainable growth in Hwange,” Ncube added.
