Mnangagwa tells provinces to fully implement devolution

PROVINCES should fully implement devolution and embark on developmental projects that have a sustainable impact on livelihoods of communities as this adds impetus to the attainment of Vision 2030, President Mnangagwa has said.

In a speech read on his behalf by Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga at the memorial service of national hero Major General (Retired) Godfrey Chanakira in Goromonzi yesterday, President Mnangagwa said the devolution concept was inclusive and ensured that provinces chartered their own developmental agenda without interference from central Government.

"In this endeavour, and as we add impetus to attaining an Upper-Middle Income Economy by 2030, Government will not leave anyone behind, as the aspirations of our people will always come first. In that regard, the new dispensation has resolved to empower provinces through the availing of devolution funds," the President said.

"Each and every province should take this as an opportunity to embark on projects and programmes that impact on livelihoods of the community. To all our provinces, I say that the ball is now in your court to determine your priorities for committing the availed resources. We are the people responsible for building this country. Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo / Ilizwe yakhiwa.

His Excellency said gone are the days when central Government would impose developmental agendas to provinces.

"Of course, central Government will continue to assist in major programmes and projects, whose benefits span across provincial jurisdictions and those that have a national outlook."

President Mnangagwa said it was important for the nation to emulate Major General (Rtd) Chanakira who was committed to serving the country diligently.

"The late Major General Chanakira was earnestly working on the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme as the Chairman of the Programme Steering Committee.

"He fully understood the intricacies of the road infrastructure development and appreciated its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product of the country. Hence, he was focused and committed to make road infrastructure better and trafficable. Indeed, he was a hard worker, who towered above mediocrity.

"He did not tolerate laziness. As Zimbabweans, we should take a leaf from his example and inculcate in ourselves the culture of hard work and commitment to duty. The late General was pivotal in the Global Compensation Deed Agreement, the Horticulture Recovery and Growth Plan, among other major assignments."

President Mnangagwa said sacrifices made by Major General (Rtd) Chanakira and other liberation heroes will not be in vain as Government will continue to implement measures that create economic growth and development.

"Fellow citizens, the sacrifice for freedom and commitment to liberate our people that the late Godfrey Chanakira and others made and throve to achieve, will not be in vain. Zimbabwe is on the rise again. This is what he aspired to see unfolding. That resolve, courage and determination remains our guiding radar towards the Zimbabwe that we all want," President Mnangagwa added.

In her address at the service, the national hero's widow Mrs Faina Chanakira described Major General (Rtd) Chanakira as a selfless individual who was passionately committed to his country.

"At one time he was approached by major foreign companies who wanted to employ him after he had passed his first degree with flying colours, but he declined the offer and said he wanted to use the knowledge to serve his country. He loyally served his country until his death."

The late General Chanakira was born on May 24 1957 in Mutare and joined the liberation struggle in 1975.

He was attested into the Zimbabwe National Army in 1980 and rose through the ranks, retiring in 2018. He died  on May 27 this year.

At the time of his death, he was Permanent Secretary in VP Chiwenga's office.