Roseline Mutare
Struggle Desire Nyahunda, an aspiring independent candidate for Masvingo Urban ward 7 has outlined his ambitious vision for the area.
In an interview with The Midweek Watch, he said, the ward’s elderly residents, who are no longer working are his top priority and considered in decision-making processes.
“As a citizens’ councilor, I will work with all people from diverse backgrounds, steering development as our major priority. I will account to the residents and citizens without fail,” Nyahunda said.
His platform includes several key initiatives. A Women’s Cluster Charter which will be formulated to address diverse needs, including access to information on rights, inheritance issues, domestic abuse, and violence. This charter aims to empower women and provide them with the necessary tools to navigate complex community issues.
He said he also plans to establish a Youth Caucus, which will serve as a platform for gathering the views of young people in all development matters. This initiative aims to promote community involvement, champion anti-drug initiatives, and provide opportunities for youths to participate in decision-making processes.
To ensure effective representation, Nyahunda promises to maintain a synergic relationship with the Member of Parliament and other elected officials.
“I will advocate for an equal share of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) earmarked for Masvingo urban. The funds will be channeled towards development of the ward and implementation of all the proposals from the residents,” he added.
Some of the key projects he proposed include constructing toilets at market places in Rujeko B and A, establishing a development committee to oversee ward concerns, and lobbying for a 60% rate discount for elderly citizens. “Having 60% rate discount to citizens will cushion our senior citizens aged over 70, who are struggling to pay their bills,” Nyahunda emphasized.
To ensure transparency and accountability, Nyahunda plans to establish regular feedback mechanisms, including a ward channel for updates, a residents’ WhatsApp group, a hotline number to report issues, and monthly feedback meetings with residents. By working together with the community, Nyahunda Struggle Desire aims to bring about meaningful development and improve the lives of Ward 7 residents.
Nyahunda is a holder of a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Peace, Conflict, and Governance, Master of Arts in Development Studies, Postgraduate Diploma in Higher and Tertiary Education, and currently pursuing a Master of Science in Peace Leadership and Governance and a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology.
With several other certificates in community building, social work, and other relevant fields, Nyahunda is well-equipped to bring about meaningful development to Ward 7. His educational background has provided him with a deep understanding of conflict resolution, governance, development, and community building.
Ward 7 seat fell vacant following the death of CCC Cllr Tafara Masimba in July.
Nyahunda will tussle it out against Prosper Tiringindi (independent), Zanu PF’s Simbarashe Shonhiwa, Masimba’s widow Tsungai Mandati (independent), and Prosper Mataruse of MDC T.
