News / National
Masvingo council to spend $16,900 on Samsung phones
2 hrs ago | Views
Masvingo City Council is facing public scrutiny after announcing plans to spend $16,900 on 13 Samsung S24 Ultra phones for its councillors, citing the need to improve communication. The decision comes at a time when the local authority is grappling with pressing service delivery challenges, raising questions about the allocation of funds.
According to Masvingo Mayor, His Worship Cllr Tabe, the city currently has 13 councillors, and the purchase of the high-end smartphones is intended to enhance their communication efficiency, especially as the council navigates a period of strained resources and growing public discontent.
"This purchase will ensure that councillors can communicate more effectively in their duties, allowing for quicker response times to the needs of residents," said Cllr Tabe.
However, the decision has sparked criticism from members of the public and opposition groups, who argue that the funds could be better allocated to address urgent issues such as water shortages, road maintenance, and waste management, which have long been a source of dissatisfaction among Masvingo residents.
Critics argue that the new phones, priced at approximately $1,300 each, are an unnecessary luxury considering the city's ongoing challenges with basic infrastructure and service delivery.
"While communication is important, the council should prioritize the welfare of its residents by addressing issues like water supply and sanitation," said one local resident.
Council officials, however, defend the purchase, arguing that modern communication tools will help councillors manage their responsibilities more effectively. "The decision to purchase these phones is part of our ongoing efforts to modernize operations and improve service delivery through better communication channels," said Cllr Tabe.
Despite the council's justifications, the controversy over the expenditure is unlikely to subside, especially with many residents questioning the priorities of the local authority in the face of more immediate concerns. The council is expected to continue facing scrutiny as it moves forward with the purchase, with calls for greater transparency and accountability in its spending decisions.
According to Masvingo Mayor, His Worship Cllr Tabe, the city currently has 13 councillors, and the purchase of the high-end smartphones is intended to enhance their communication efficiency, especially as the council navigates a period of strained resources and growing public discontent.
"This purchase will ensure that councillors can communicate more effectively in their duties, allowing for quicker response times to the needs of residents," said Cllr Tabe.
However, the decision has sparked criticism from members of the public and opposition groups, who argue that the funds could be better allocated to address urgent issues such as water shortages, road maintenance, and waste management, which have long been a source of dissatisfaction among Masvingo residents.
"While communication is important, the council should prioritize the welfare of its residents by addressing issues like water supply and sanitation," said one local resident.
Council officials, however, defend the purchase, arguing that modern communication tools will help councillors manage their responsibilities more effectively. "The decision to purchase these phones is part of our ongoing efforts to modernize operations and improve service delivery through better communication channels," said Cllr Tabe.
Despite the council's justifications, the controversy over the expenditure is unlikely to subside, especially with many residents questioning the priorities of the local authority in the face of more immediate concerns. The council is expected to continue facing scrutiny as it moves forward with the purchase, with calls for greater transparency and accountability in its spending decisions.
Source - online
