SYDNEY MUBAIWA
SHURUGWI- The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has approved US$8m annual budget for once scenic Shurugwi Town Council (STC).
Shurugwi Town Council chairperson Fanuel Machiya confirmed the development in an interview. He said the budget was crafted following extensive consultations in all wards.
“I am glad to announce that the Minister of Local Government and Public Works has approved our US$8 864405.77 million annual budget for the year 2025.
“We are glad that the budget was approved early and this gives us enough time to put capital projects and proposals into motion. Initially, we have proposed a USD$10 625 627.22 million budget. Last year, our budget was pegged at USD5 617572,” he said.
He urged residents to continue paying their bills so that the local authority can deliver its service delivery mandate.
“I urge all ratepayers to pay their bills promptly as this will enable council to deliver essential services and drive development,” he said.
He said last year the local authority only managed to collect US$2 696 434 .87 through revenue collection, licensing and land sales.
He said the majority of the budget will be allocated towards Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) activities which are critical to the health and wellbeing of residents.
“We are going to invest in a number of capital projects with major focus on addressing water challenges. We are also focusing on the completion of the RB Mine Shaft project where we intend to get water from,” he said.
To address the infrastructure gaps, the local authority plans to complete the construction of a maternity wing at Sebanga Clinic with the aim to improve access to healthcare services.
The local authority is also planning to construct Sebanga Primary School.
He however, bemoaned low disbursements of funds from government funds through Zinara and devolution.
