PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed dismay over reports of incompetence and dereliction of duty within councils across the country.
The Head of State made the remarks while officially opening the Councils Indaba in Bulawayo on Thursday. The gathering, attended by over 2,000 councillors and council executives, focused on enhancing service delivery and improving the performance of local authorities.
“It is alarming that we still receive reports of dereliction of duty and gross incompetence. We owe the people of Zimbabwe’s commitment, and we need to deliver. Service delivery areas include housing, solid waste management, roads and public lighting, and corporate governance,” he said.
The Head of State also emphasised the need to have proper budget systems in councils as they work to fulfil their mandate.
“Budgets are designed to regulate, manage, and structure resources. There are areas which the government must give particular emphasis on. It should be noted that money funds ideas; it does not create them,” he added.
President Mnangagwa also urged local authorities to prioritise the welfare of their employees.
He ended his address by reminding all Zimbabweans in key positions that they have a responsibility to serve.
“We are all called to serve, there should be no us and them, we’re all us and them. We are one united people of Zimbabwe entrusted to champion deliverance,” noted the President.
