Staff Reporter
President Mnangagwa, yesterday presided over the 4th edition of the All Councillors Indaba, held at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) grounds in Bulawayo, where he launched two critical policy frameworks aimed at transforming urban governance and service delivery.
The President unveiled the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Policy and the Urban State Land Management Policy, both designed to enhance efficiency in local authorities and bring order to land allocation and infrastructure development in cities and towns across Zimbabwe.
Addressing hundreds of elected councillors and senior local Government officials from across the country, President Mnangagwa described the Indaba as a crucial platform for reviewing progress, exchanging best practices, and charting new strategies to improve the lives of citizens.
“This is an opportunity for local authorities to share experiences, learn from each other and deliver better services. You must be able to say, today our local authority is better than it was two years ago. Point to the landmarks you achieved during your time in council,” he said.
The President reminded councillors of their constitutional mandate to serve the electorate faithfully, stressing that their positions come with both privilege and responsibility.
He delivered a stern message, calling for greater accountability and warning against complacency in office.
“Kwete kungo garamuchinwa svutugadzike. Ibasa kushandira vakaku sarudzai. Kana usina cheku contributer taura vamwe vapinde,” he said, urging those unwilling or unable to contribute meaningfully to step aside for others prepared to lead.
The newly launched policies are expected to address long-standing issues of poor service delivery, haphazard urban development, and weak land management systems.
The Minimum Service Delivery Standards Policy sets performance benchmarks for local authorities, while the Urban State Land Management Policy aims to bring transparency and fairness in the allocation and use of urban state land.
The President further emphasised that public office must be rooted in results, with visible improvements in basic services such as waste management, water provision, housing, and road maintenance.
“Whatever you are doing as a councillor must be guided by the best interests of those who put you there,” President concluded.
Councillors were also encouraged to engage residents regularly and ensure community grievances are reflected in council deliberations.
