Staff Reporter

Bulawayo’s Town Clerk, Christopher Dube, has had his contract extended for a further year, starting from October 1, 2024.

This decision, approved by the Local Government Board, brings an end to weeks of uncertainty surrounding Dube’s future with the City Council after initial reports suggested his contract might not be renewed when it was set to expire on September 30, 2024.

The extension was granted following a formal request by the Bulawayo City Council earlier in the year.

Bulawayo Mayor, Councillor David Coltart, confirmed the news in a statement yesterday, saying, "The City of Bulawayo has received communication from the Local Government Board acceding to the Council's request regarding the extension of the contract for Mr. Christopher Dube."

This move, according to Coltart, ensures continuity in leadership at a crucial time for Bulawayo, which faces several pressing issues, including infrastructure challenges and efforts to attract more investment.

This latest development stands in contrast to earlier reports that indicated the Local Government Board had not renewed Dube's contract. The City Council had initially resolved to extend Dube’s tenure on February 7, 2024, but the final decision rested with the Local Government Board, which formally received the extension request on March 25, 2024.

With no decision reached by the end of September, doubts arose about Dube’s future role. The Board’s approval of the extension now allows the City Council to focus on its administrative and developmental agenda while securing stable leadership during the transition.

Mayor Coltart also noted that while Dube’s contract has been extended, the city will begin the process of recruiting a new Town Clerk.

"In line with conventional practice on succession planning, the City of Bulawayo will commence the recruitment of the successor Town Clerk in due course in accordance with the enabling legislation," Coltart stated.

This recruitment process will be carried out while Dube remains in office, allowing for a smooth transition.

The extension of Dube’s tenure is viewed as a stabilising move for Bulawayo, which is grappling with significant challenges, such as water shortages and the need for infrastructure development.

Terrence Chipwanya, a governance expert based in South Africa, commented on the importance of continuity in city administration, saying, "BCC must not be tempted to replace Mr. Dube with a political figure. The next Town Clerk should be someone who can genuinely add value to the city, especially at a time when it is facing critical infrastructural issues and aiming to boost economic growth."

Local business leaders have also voiced their support for the decision, highlighting the positive impact stable governance can have on investment.

Mpho Ndlovu, a prominent business figure in Bulawayo, emphasised the importance of consistency in leadership.

"Continuity in the town clerk's office can significantly enhance investor confidence. Mr. Dube’s leadership is crucial as Bulawayo seeks to implement strategic initiatives to overcome its current hurdles and capitalise on potential opportunities," Ndlovu remarked.

As Bulawayo moves forward, the extended tenure of Town Clerk Dube is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the city’s immediate challenges, while laying the foundation for future growth.