By Farai Muroiwa Marapira
Devolution is the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the central government to sub-national entities, such as provincial, metropolitan, and local authorities, particularly in rural areas. The aim of devolution is to empower local communities by involving citizens in decision-making processes, improving local governance, and enhancing public services at the grassroots level.
His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and the Second Republic recognize devolution as a crucial element in achieving the goal of transforming the country into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. With that in mind, robust activity has been ongoing in implementing the devolution dream.
Core to the philosophy of devolution is the Zanu PF government's aim to ensure the equitable sharing of local and national resources, as well as to transfer fiscal responsibilities and resources from the national government to sub-national entities. This establishes a solid financial foundation for each provincial, metropolitan, as well as rural local authority.
Such a revolutionary decentralization of powers aligns with the Constitution of Zimbabwe (Section 264), which calls for financial support through intergovernmental fiscal transfers. In practical terms, devolution funds have been used for various projects across Zimbabwe.
These projects include the construction of clinics, schools, roads, bridges, and community markets, as well as the provision of refuse collection trucks and ambulances in different regions. The aim is to enhance social services and develop infrastructure, ultimately improving the lives of Zimbabwean citizens.
Notable clinics, such as Bona Clinic in Bubi, Mupamawonde and Shumbaimwe clinics in Bikita, Mlugulu Clinic in Matopo, and Mabvazuva Clinic in Epworth, have been built using devolution funds. Additionally, an orthopedic hospital and an Obstetric Fistula clinic in Bulawayo have been constructed, showcasing the government's commitment to reaching all areas and providing quality healthcare services.
Devolution projects also extend to education, with communities in various districts taking initiatives to build schools within a 5km radius. For example, Gwasela-Bhalimasvesve in Zhombe and Chirichoga Primary School in Masvingo district have been funded through devolution funds. Similarly, infrastructure projects like bridges and road rehabilitation have also been undertaken using devolution funds, addressing damages caused by natural elements and improving connectivity within regions.
The impact of devolution is not limited to physical infrastructure. Efforts have been made to open essential services closer to the people, reducing the need for residents to travel to major cities. Examples include the Murewa District Registry and E-passport Bio-Enrolment Centre, as well as the construction of a government complex in Hwedza, which provides local employment opportunities and fosters community development.
President Mnangagwa's leadership emphasizes inclusive development and aims to bridge societal divides, promote sustainable governance, and achieve socio-economic progress for all Zimbabweans. By implementing devolution, the government ensures that no individual or region is left behind, ultimately fostering progress and prosperity across the country.