Modern homes for old Gwanda Road displaced families

Mnangagwa says there is no room for hesitation in his government
President Emmerson Mnangagwa took decisive action yesterday against under-performing Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, calling out those who are creating unnecessary delays in government operations by failing to submit reports and attend essential Cabinet Committee meetings.

In a meeting held at State House in Harare, President Mnangagwa engaged with 10 Ministers responsible for the country's administrative provinces. The meeting focused on ensuring that the country's National Devolution Agenda remains effective and that provincial ministers are actively contributing to national development goals.

The President emphasized the importance of comprehensive and timely reports from provincial ministers, covering both routine and ad-hoc matters concerning their respective regions, including economic affairs. He expressed frustration that some provinces had failed to meet these expectations.

"This is unacceptable and tantamount to dereliction of duty. The failure to attend Cabinet Committee meetings in 2024 has resulted in missed vital input from provinces," President Mnangagwa said. He added that such shortcomings must be addressed urgently, with the aim of strengthening provinces and creating dynamic economic hubs that foster growth in all sectors.

Underlining the gravity of their roles, the President reminded the Ministers that their primary task is to improve the living standards of citizens and contribute to shared prosperity. He stressed that hesitation and complacency are not acceptable under his leadership. "We need leaders who are bold, focused, and willing to make personal sacrifices for the nation's success," he said.

President Mnangagwa outlined his vision for a shift in the role of the Ministries of Provincial Affairs and Devolution, transitioning them from largely ceremonial or administrative functions to active players in regional economic development. The implementation of a provincial fiscal performance dashboard and monitoring of socio-economic performance must be prioritized, he added, to ensure coordinated growth across the country.

"Each province is blessed with natural resources, and it is our duty to ensure that these resources are transformed into investment opportunities that benefit our people," the President stated. He also called for increased collaboration between government ministries and traditional leaders to ensure that decision-making processes are inclusive and reflective of the needs of all communities.

Addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters, such as the El-Nino induced drought, President Mnangagwa urged the provincial ministers to continue ensuring the timely delivery of assistance to affected communities. He also took aim at certain private voluntary organizations, urging provincial structures to expose any clandestine activities that seek to undermine national progress.

The President reiterated the importance of the ruling party, Zanu-PF, in shaping government policy, asserting that the party's supremacy remains a core principle in driving the country's development. He stressed the need for seamless coordination between provincial governments, party structures, and local communities to ensure the successful implementation of government projects.

"The work of the Government is to serve the people. You are the leaders at the grassroots, and it is your responsibility to ensure that we build a united, prosperous, and sustainable future for all Zimbabweans," President Mnangagwa concluded.

Ministers attending the meeting reflected on the President's guidance, with Masvingo Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira emphasizing the need to prioritize unfinished projects. "We are grateful for the President's leadership in guiding us to work harder towards achieving Vision 2030," he said.

Mashonaland East's Dr. Apollonia Munzverengwi spoke about the infrastructural developments taking place in her province, including the construction of new dams and water systems. "Mash East is working together with other provinces, and the benefits of these projects are directly reaching our communities," she said, noting that the Muchekeranwa and Chivhu dams are improving water access for households and towns alike.

The meeting with the President serves as a call to action for all provincial leaders to step up their efforts and ensure that government initiatives are carried out efficiently, effectively, and with the people's welfare at the forefront.