Staff Reporter
Zanu PF Chegutu West Member of Parliament, Shakemore Timburwa, has expressed confidence in transforming the constituency into a thriving, self-sufficient economy.
Speaking to this publication yesterday, Timburwa highlighted a strategic vision focused on agricultural productivity, mining, and job creation to uplift the community and tackle longstanding challenges.
"Since being elected as the representative of Chegutu West, I have been fully aware of the immense responsibilities that come with the role. However, navigating the complex dynamics of addressing the needs of an estimated 150 000 to 200 000 people across both our urban and rural wards remains a challenge that requires ongoing effort and strategic thinking," Timburwa stated.
Timburwa emphasised his primary goal of building a constituency that can sustain itself economically.
This vision includes producing sufficient food to meet local needs, cultivating commercial crops to fuel industries, and unlocking the region's mining potential.
Central to this strategy is addressing the high levels of youth unemployment, a pressing issue in the constituency.
"Achieving this requires more than vision; it demands navigating a web of competing dynamics and power structures," he added.
Timburwa identified the dire water reticulation crisis as a critical hurdle to development.
He stressed that access to clean, reliable water is essential for agriculture, industry, health, and daily living, noting that without a complete overhaul of the water systems, other development goals would remain unattainable.
"Access to water is foundational to every aspect of development. Without addressing this challenge head-on, other goals risk being unattainable," he said.
The MP shed light on the difficulties of governance in delivering tangible results, highlighting the shared responsibilities between central government and local councils.
While central government sets policies and provides resources, local authorities handle implementation and oversight.
This dynamic, he explained, often creates delays, bottlenecks, and misaligned priorities.
"For example, central government policies may mandate significant projects, but local councils might lack the capacity or resources to implement them effectively. Similarly, local needs may not always align with national priorities, creating a gap between what residents expect and what can realistically be delivered," Timburwa said.
Chegutu West's unique composition of urban and rural wards presents its own challenges.
Timburwa noted that urban wards prioritise infrastructure, water systems, and job creation, while rural areas focus on access to basic services such as healthcare, schools, and electricity.
"Balancing these demands requires creativity and inclusive decision-making," he remarked.
The MP also acknowledged the economic challenges of attracting investment, modernising farming practices, and opening new mines.
He noted that these efforts require both external support and the buy-in of the local population to ensure long-term success.
"While we aim for significant progress, the local population must see immediate and tangible benefits for these efforts to gain sustained support," he said.
Timburwa stressed the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders to achieve his vision for Chegutu West.
He called for accountability and collective effort, expressing confidence that with the support of the people, the constituency could overcome its challenges and build a foundation for growth.
"Developing Chegutu West into a thriving, self-sufficient economy is not an overnight process, but with the support of our people, I am committed to building a foundation for sustained growth and prosperity. Together, we can create a future where our constituency thrives," Timburwa said.
The MP's bold vision, while ambitious, reflects the aspirations of many in the Chegutu West constituency.
However, the road ahead will require focused leadership, resource mobilisation, and unwavering commitment to addressing the constituency's multifaceted challenges.
