-urges council to open more revenue streams
Edwin Moyo
Gweru-The Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube has commended Gweru City Council’s efforts in advancing Zimbabwe’s agricultural and economic development, through wheat production at its Go Beer farm.
The impressive wheat production at Go Beer farm comes as the country gears for a record harvest of 600 000metric tones of the winter crop.
Speaking to the media after touring the 23-hectare Go Beer Farm in Gweru, Minister Ncube said the production at hand was a significant contribution towards the nation’s food security and nutrition.
“The Midlands Province has not only met but exceeded its 2024 winter wheat targets, showcasing the dedication of our local farmers and the support provided by the government and financial institutions.
“I encourage farmers to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Second Republic to enhance production and productivity, aiming to restore Zimbabwe’s status as the “bread basket” of Southern Africa as well as achieving an upper-middle-income economy before 2030.
“The 23-hectare winter wheat project at the Go Beer Farm reflects the province’s dedication to supporting President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision of a robust agricultural sector and a transformative economy,” he added.
Ncube however urged council to harness other revenue streams to reduce the burden on residents.
“I urge the local authority to come up with alternative revenue sources to mitigate the impact of rate increases on residents.
“I would like to applaud the recent improvements in Gweru’s service delivery, including functional traffic lights, enhanced refuse collection, and pothole repairs, though water supply issues persist in areas like Mkoba 17 and Ridgemont Heights.
“There is need for continued focus on infrastructure and community services to enhance adequate supply of the precious liquid,” he added
Meanwhile, residents have called upon the Gweru council to initiate friendly debt recovery measures following a property attachments exercise which is still haunting the city.
The exercise has seen residents with bills ranging from US$60 and above losing their properties to the courts following the recent letters of demands which were issued out by council.
Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association director, Conelia Selipiwe said council was supposed to engage residents before attaching property.
Gweru council is owed ZW$165 000 000 by residents.