On April 13, 2024, a public consultation meeting was held at St. Ignatius Primary School in Hwange, focused on the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for Hwange Central. The gathering was well-attended and marked a significant step in community engagement regarding local development initiatives.
Meeting Outcomes
Daniel Molokeli, the MP for Hwange Central, led the meeting, which culminated in the election of a new CDF Committee for the 2023-2028 term. The committee comprises key members including Alice Phiri (Trade Unions, Women, and Local Communities), Luka Katako (Traditional and Faith-Based Leaders), Bryan Nyoni (Youths and Local Communities), and Shonipai Muleya (Financial and Accounting).
During the assembly, the attendees unanimously nominated Hon. Francisca Ncube to represent the National Assembly and Hon. Teresa Kabondo for the Senate. Additionally, four signatories were appointed for the CDF bank account: Hon. Daniel Molokele, Luka Katako, Thulani Moyo, and Alice Phiri.
Allocation and Proposed Projects
The total allocation for 2024, which includes outstanding funds from 2023, amounts to $100,000, to be disbursed in ZiG at the inter-market bank rate. The meeting brought forth three potential project proposals:
- Solar-powered boreholes with JoJo tanks and fenced nutritional gardens.
- An Advanced Level Laboratory science facility at Nechilisa Secondary School.
- Refurbishment of the Nengasha Stadium.
After thorough discussions, the priority project selected was the solar-powered boreholes and nutritional gardens, set to be implemented in five different locations across the constituency—Ward 1 at Chibondo, Ward 4 at Baghdad, Ward 5 at Empumalanga, Ward 6 at Phase Four, and Ward 14 at Ngumija.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
To ensure transparency and community involvement, two public feedback meetings will be held once the project is underway, allowing residents to track progress and provide input.
In a recent address, Daniel Molokeli emphasized the importance of community participation in these initiatives and highlighted the approved 2024 CDF project proposals. He noted that no proposals have yet been submitted for the years 2025 and 2026, and that the Honorable Speaker announced that the outstanding CDF disbursement for 2023 is no longer accessible. Consequently, each constituency will receive 1.3 million ZiG, equivalent to approximately $50,000.
As we look towards the future, it is critical for constituents to remain engaged and informed about the developments concerning the Constituency Development Fund. Together, we can work towards a brighter and more prosperous Hwange Central.
Stay tuned for updates, including the scheduling of the next meeting, to continue our engagement and collaboration in local governance and community development.
