By Promise Dube
A gender activist and human rights lawyer has called on the Bulawayo City Council to adopt a more inclusive approach to budgeting that addresses the needs of all residents.
Speaking at a recent multi-stakeholder conference, Prisca Dube said civil society organisations have a key role to play in ensuring that public services are gender-responsive and inclusive.
The event brought together representatives from the local authority, government ministries, informal trader associations, feminist groups and civil society organisations.
“A budget that supports effective public service delivery is essential,” said Dube. “Everything depends on how we manage city finances. It is the responsibility of civil society to monitor how public funds are spent.”
Dube clarified that inclusive budgeting did not mean creating separate budgets for men and women, but rather developing one that reflects the needs of all citizens, including people with disabilities and young people.
“We need a budget that is inclusive and ensures no one is left behind,” she said. “Men, women, youth, and persons with disabilities must all be considered.”
She also called for greater transparency and public access to information on how the city awards and manages contracts.
“We must know what contracts exist, who has received them, and how they will benefit the residents of Bulawayo. This information should be made available to the public,” she said.
Ward 11 Councillor Suzan Sithole echoed the call, urging civil society to empower women to participate in budget consultation meetings.
“Civil society must help raise awareness among women so they are not afraid to speak out,” said Sithole. “They must be equipped with knowledge and encouraged to attend consultation forums to share their views.”
When others look away, we dig deeper. From ZPRA history to local corruption, CITE tells the stories that matter. Keep our journalism independent. Donate here