Gweru City affirms improved financial management as 2024 US$37m budget is approved
By Delicious Mathuthu
Gweru City Council acting city boss has promised to improve the local authority’s financial management system in line with statutory requirements and central government policies.
Gweru City Council Acting Town Clerk, Livingston Churu, said the approval of the city’s 2024 budget has come with conditions to align it’s financial plan with the Public Finance Management Act, Urban Councils Act and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ‘Call to Action’ blueprint.
“The City of Gweru is pleased to announce the approval of the 2024 budget, reflecting our
ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility and effective municipal management,” he said.
“However, this approval comes with specific conditions aimed at
enhancing compliance with regulatory frameworks and optimizing operational efficiency.
“…The City Council acknowledges the imperative to align with the requirements outlined in the Public Finance Management Act (Chapter 22:19) and the Urban Councils Act (Chapter
29:15).
“…In line with directives outlined in the Call to Action, Blueprint by His Excellency President
Dr E.D Mnangagwa, the City Council is committed to optimizing its accounting package to streamline financial processes and improve transparency and accountability.”
Churu said the city will work on ensuring that its audits are up to date as recommended by the Local Government and Public Works Ministry.
“In response to this, the Council is mandated to provide a comprehensive plan for updating arrear audits, ensuring full compliance with these legislative frameworks,” he said.
The local authority also said it will tackle low revenue collection challenges as recommended by the Ministry, to improve financial viability.
The acting city boss also said technology will be a key pillar in ensuring financial management efficiency, adding that the council will promote responsible business practices that prioritise community interests.
“This entails fostering an environment that promotes responsible business practices while safeguarding the
interests of the community and ensuring equitable development,” said Churu.
In line with calls by Residents Associations in Gweru, and civic society organisations such as the Zimbabwe Coalition for Debt and Development (ZIMCODD) on improved transparency and accountability, Churu said the local authority will work collaboratively with all stakeholders to observe the highest governance standards.
“The City of Gweru reaffirms its dedication to upholding the highest standards of governance, transparency, and accountability.
“We are fully committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders, including government authorities, businesses and residents to achieve our shared objectives of sustainable development and prosperity for all,” Acting Town Clerk Churu said.
Local Government and Public Works Minister, Winston Chitando, through his Permanent Secretary, John Basera, recently approved for Gweru’s US$37 million 2024 budget outlining the need for the city to align it’s budget, as now promised by Churu.
