Gweru residents welcome City Council’s US$230,000 investment in service delivery
By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru residents are optimistic about improved service delivery following the city council’s acquisition of two new ambulances, two service delivery vehicles, and essential farm implements valued at US$230,000.
The development aims to address long-standing challenges in emergency response, infrastructure maintenance, and waste management.
For years, the local authority has struggled to provide adequate services due to a lack of vehicles and equipment. Gweru Residents Forum executive director Charles Mazorodze welcomed the acquisition, stating it would enhance the council’s ability to respond promptly to emergencies.
“This is a major milestone. The new ambulances and service vehicles will allow the council to intervene in a timely manner, ensuring residents receive the services they need,” said Mazorodze.Areas such as Mkoba, Ascot, Mtapa, and Senga have previously faced persistent issues due to the absence of functional service vehicles.
Mazorodze emphasized that the ambulances would be crucial for handling emergencies along highways.He noted that the funds paid by residents are being effectively utilized, as seen in the purchase of these vehicles and equipment.
Charles Mittawa, chief executive officer of the Gweru Residents Association (GRA), also welcomed the advancement, particularly in addressing sewer and water burst issues.“Many residents have struggled to reach referral hospitals in Harare and other cities when transferred for treatment. The addition of these ambulances will help solve that problem,” Mittawa stated.
Mittawa urged the city council to invest in more refuse compactors, highlighting ongoing garbage collection challenges due to frequent breakdowns of existing compactors.GRA secretary Chipo Chipedza echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the necessity for better service delivery. “The ambulances and service vehicles will go a long way in alleviating problems, especially sewer bursts, where engineers previously lacked adequate transport.
Now that the council has vehicles, we hope they will address the challenges faced by residents,” Chipedza remarked.She also called for improved water supply in areas like Ridgemont Heights and Haben Park. Gweru Mayor Martin Chivhoko highlighted that the new ambulances, service delivery vehicles, and farm implements would significantly improve healthcare, infrastructure maintenance, and agriculture in the province.“These resources will undoubtedly enhance our response to medical emergencies, improve service delivery, and boost agricultural production,” Chivhoko asserted.
The ambulances, purchased at US$84,960 each, come equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment and will be staffed by highly trained paramedics. The Nissan Navara single cabs, costing US$28,500 each, will serve essential functions, including water and sewer maintenance, revenue collection, and licensing. The Go Beer Farm equipment, including a boom sprayer, planter, and drum mower, is expected to enhance farm productivity and contribute to the province’s agricultural growth. Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, commended the council’s efforts, emphasizing the need for continued development aligned with national goals.
“Ncube urged local authorities to shift focus to road rehabilitation, grass cutting, street lighting, water and sewer reticulation, and providing workspaces for informal traders to boost local economic development,” said officials. As Gweru moves forward, the community anticipates a positive impact on service delivery and overall quality of life.
