Takudzwa Changandeya
HARARE: The Annual Residents Summit, themed “Towards Water Justice and Climate Resilience,” is in full swing, bringing together stakeholders from across Zimbabwe to address urgent challenges related to climate change, local governance, and sustainable service delivery.
The summit’s discussions, highlighted in a post by the Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA) on X, focus on policy dialogue, resident-led initiatives, action plans, and strategies for the future.
Key discussions have zeroed in on the role of local authorities, the impact of devolution, and the growing concerns around water and climate justice.
During a live broadcasted discussion, councillor Kudakwashe Chigumo, Co-Vice President of the Urban Councils Association of Zimbabwe (UCAZ) and Mayor of Karoi, expressed frustration over the lack of adequate funding from devolution.
He stressed that this shortfall is hampering the ability of local councils to provide essential services.
“Local authorities are struggling due to insufficient funds from devolution. This is directly impacting service delivery, and we are unable to meet residents’ expectations,” said Chigumo.
His concerns were echoed by Isaac Matsilele, Secretary General of the Association of Rural District Councils of Zimbabwe (ARDCZ), who outlined the need for a more equitable distribution of revenue between central government and local authorities.
“Local authorities are the implementing arm of the government. For devolution to work, 95% of revenue should be allocated to councils, with only 5% retained by the central government. Anything less hinders our ability to serve our communities effectively,” Matsilele stated.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between local authorities and Resident Associations (RAs) to ensure the effective delivery of services, saying, “Unity between Resident Associations and local councils is essential if we are to improve service delivery and tackle the challenges we face.”
A representative from the Midlands region highlighted the severe impact of the El Niño-induced drought, which has exacerbated water and power shortages in many communities.
The representative pointed out an alarming rise in gender-based violence (GBV) at borehole stations and a surge in waterborne diseases due to limited clean water access.
“We are witnessing the devastating effects of El Niño. Water shortages and power cuts are forcing communities to turn to firewood, causing deforestation.
“Worse still, we are seeing an increase in gender-based violence at water collection points and rising cases of waterborne diseases,” the Midlands representative warned.
In response to these challenges, the representative recommended several actions, including reforestation efforts, exploring alternative energy sources, and strengthening the Minerals and Urban Councils Acts.
Gweru Residents Association also underscored the critical water and sanitation issues affecting urban areas, calling for more proactive collaboration between local governments and Resident Associations.
They said Residant Associations should be recognized as key partners in the development process.
“Water and sanitation are at crisis levels in many urban areas. We need stronger partnerships between local governments and Resident Associations.
“These groups are not just watchdogs, they are vital partners in driving sustainable development,” the organisation submitted.
