Councillors Collaborate with Property Company
In the first week of September 2025, Councillors from the Hwange Local Board convened with officials from Hwange Property Company to discuss strategies for enhancing service delivery in their communities. This meeting comes in response to recent government findings highlighting minimum service delivery standards across various local authorities.
The Cabinet, led by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere, recently approved a framework of minimum service delivery standards aimed at guiding local authorities in improving their operations. During a post-Cabinet briefing on May 7, 2025, Dr. Muswere emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing local authority operations in line with national development goals outlined in the Blueprint titled “A Call to Action. No Compromise to Service Delivery.”
The approved framework defines the minimum levels of service that local authorities, including those in Hwange, should provide. It covers crucial areas such as water supply, sanitation, solid waste management, public lighting, public health, and community services. Each service area includes performance indicators and benchmarks to ensure accountability and consistency in service provision.
Dr. Muswere highlighted that local authorities are now required to submit data online, supported by a real-time dashboard system to monitor and evaluate their progress. This initiative aims to ensure that citizens receive services that match the fees they pay, reinforcing the principle that residents should not be billed for undelivered services.
In addition to these measures, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has established an Inspectorate Department to oversee service provision in councils, aligning with President Mnangagwa’s directive for improved local authority operations. The department will conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with the newly established standards.
In conjunction with these developments, the Cabinet also approved the Climate Change Management Bill. This legislation aims to guarantee environmental rights for present and future generations while promoting sustainable practices across various sectors.
As local leaders in Hwange work collaboratively with property company officials, the focus remains on enhancing community development and ensuring that residents receive the quality services they deserve. The ongoing efforts reflect a commitment to meet and exceed the newly established minimum service delivery standards, ultimately fostering a better living environment for all.
