Dhlamini elected new Vic Falls Mayor

Councillor Somvelo Dhlamini of the MDC Alliance has landed the Victoria Falls mayoral post taking over from Sifiso Mpofu with calls by the residents to shun self-enrichment and to consolidate the resort town status as an attractive tourist destination.

Following yesterday's mayoral elections for Victoria Falls, ward 9 Councillor Dhlamini will be deputised by Patricia Mwale.

Dhlamini secured a total of 8 votes while Margaret Varley got 3 votes.

In his acceptance speech the new Victoria Falls Mayor committed himself to steer the town which is seeking a city status to better economic prospects and to improve service delivery.

"As we embark on this five year journey we will take what we've learnt over the past couple of years and continue moving forward capitalising on the new opportunities," said Dhlamini.

He highlighted that the renewed confidence by investors to invest in the tourism industry in Victoria Falls is encouraging adding that the municipality will put in place measures to ensure that the resort town consolidate its position as the preferred tourist destination.

Combined Victoria Falls Residents Association chairperson Mr Morgen Dube said the border town is optimistic that the councillors will prioritise development and engagement with the rate-payers.

"We are hopeful that council will devote energies towards the transformation of the town. We would also like to see continued engagement with the rate-payers," he said.

Among some of the immediate tasks for the new councillors are to support the implementation of several investment projects which are at different levels of execution and to spruce up the sports facilities in line with the national vision of transforming the town into a sport tourism destination.

It is estimated that the local authority requires about $15 million per annum to achieve financial sustainability.