The minister of State for Mashonaland East Province Apolonia Munzverengwi on Wednesday urged local government authorities to consult residents before they use the devolution grants as they risk addressing issues which residents do not consider a priority or worth addressing.
Munzverengwi made the remarks after commissioning a pay-toilet and $2,5 million maintenance equipment at Chikomba Rural District Council offices. She said:
President Mnangagwa initiated the devolution programme to enhance a bottom-up communication process which ensures that the real problems faced by the people are addressed at local level.
It is important that before utilising the devolution grants from the government, authorities should inquire from the residents how they want the fund to be used. I am happy that Chikomba RDC managed to purchase a refuse truck and a grader, equipment key for efficient service delivery.
She also applauded the council for the toilet which she said would generate revenue for the local authority.
Former Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa was mocked in 2018 after he had commissioned a garbage bin in Rusape.
Members of the public said that although the initiative was commendable, authorities could have chosen an individual whose status is commensurate with the task, in this case, a councillor.
More: NewsDay
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