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Patrick Chitumba Midlands Bureau Chief
CITY of Gweru has adopted a 2018-2022 strategic master plan aimed at improving service delivery and attracting investment for socio-economic growth of the Midlands capital. Mayor Councillor Charles Chikozho said residents, through their residents associations and other stakeholders, contributed towards development of the strategic master plan document. “We now have a strategic plan in place for 2018-2022 for Gweru,” he said. “The strategic plan was adopted and will be the guideline in terms of things to do for the development of the town between 2018 and 2022.

“So, this is a guiding document for the local authority. I am glad to say that input into the document was derived from the residents themselves through their representatives, council and other stakeholders. So, it is coming after wide and approved consultations.” Cllr Chikozho said the strategic master plan outlined the primary areas of focus for the local authority between 2018 and 2022.

“Some of the things the strategic master plan outlines include improving service delivery through improving revenue inflows and reducing costs, strengthening local governance, rehabilitation and prioritising infrastructure, social and amenities development, improving and enhancing employee’s motivation,” he said.

Town Clerk Ms Elizabeth Gwatipedza recently called on the local authority to adopt the strategic master plan for the city to enable provision of water and sewer services to upcoming residential areas. In recent years, the city has witnessed a sharp surge in development of residential and commercial stands, with some stretching into peri-urban and rural areas.

“There is need for a master combination plan if we are to incorporate areas such as in Vungu and Zibagwe, for example,” Mrs Gwatipedza said.

“I do not see these RDCs (Rural District Councils) being able to provide treated water to people in the new areas. The new areas should be connected to Gweru City and there is need to work on modalities to make sure these RDCs contribute something towards infrastructure development.”