The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, today officiated at the commissioning of a new refuse compactor truck and attended the Insiza Business Expo in Filabusi, Insiza District.
The event brought together traditional leaders, Government officials, local authorities and the business community, including Chief Sibasa, Chief Jahana, Politburo Member Mrs E. Nyati, Central Committee Member Cde A. Langa, Rural District Development Committee (RDDC) members, Joint Operations Command (JOC) members, Insiza Rural District Council leadership, Expo Management, and representatives from various Government departments and the private sector.
STRENGTHENING WASTE MANAGEMENT THROUGH DEVOLUTION
The commissioning of the refuse compactor marks an important milestone in improving solid waste management and service delivery in Filabusi.
Rapid growth in mining activities has contributed to increased economic activity and population growth in Filabusi, placing greater pressure on local infrastructure and municipal services. The growth of the centre culminated in its declaration as a Town Board by the Ministry of Local Government.
Previously, Insiza Rural District Council relied largely on a single tractor for refuse collection. To strengthen waste management capacity, the Council utilised Devolution Funds to procure a refuse compactor truck valued at US$122,000.
The commissioning was accompanied by the launch of an anti-litter campaign under the message:
“DO NOT LITTER, BIN IT.”
Hon. Nguluvhe congratulated the Council on directing public resources towards an asset that will directly improve service delivery and the cleanliness of Filabusi.
The Minister emphasised that transparency and accountability must remain central to the utilisation of Devolution Funds, with communities able to see and experience tangible improvements arising from public investments.
He also called upon residents and businesses to consistently pay their rates and utility bills, noting that effective service delivery requires shared responsibility between local authorities and the communities they serve.
“Devolution must translate into visible improvements in the lives of our people. Resources entrusted to local authorities must be managed transparently and directed towards projects that respond to the needs of communities.”
The Minister further urged residents, businesses and institutions to support the anti-litter campaign and take collective responsibility for keeping Filabusi clean.
INSIZA BUSINESS EXPO CONTINUES TO GROW
Hon. Nguluvhe also attended the Insiza Business Expo, which continues to provide an important platform for businesses, farmers, miners, Government departments and other stakeholders to showcase their activities, build partnerships and explore investment opportunities.
The Expo has recorded encouraging growth, increasing from an average of approximately 50 exhibitors during the previous three years to 60 exhibitors this year, representing sectors including retail, mining, security, agriculture and Government.
The Minister encouraged businesses and farmers from Insiza to participate in the Matabeleland South Provincial Expo, thereby increasing their visibility and creating opportunities for broader partnerships and markets.
MAKING INSIZA A KEY AGRICULTURAL PRODUCER
With its diverse irrigation schemes, livestock farms, mining activities and expanding commercial sector, Insiza District has significant potential to contribute towards the economic development of Matabeleland South Province.
Hon. Nguluvhe encouraged farmers, businesses, traditional leaders and Government departments to work together towards strengthening agricultural production, particularly irrigation development and livestock production.
“Our vision is to see Insiza becoming one of the major breadbaskets of Matabeleland South. We have the land, farmers, irrigation potential and an active business community. What is required is stronger collaboration, productivity and sustainable utilisation of our resources.”
The Minister also commended traditional leaders for maintaining constructive partnerships with their communities, Government and development stakeholders, noting that traditional leadership remains an important pillar of community development.
CONCLUSION
The commissioning of the refuse compactor truck and continued expansion of the Insiza Business Expo demonstrate the importance of Devolution, accountable local governance and Government-private sector-community partnerships in advancing development.
The Government remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen service delivery, promote investment, improve agricultural productivity and create sustainable economic opportunities across Insiza District and the wider Matabeleland South Province.