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Ward 22 projects stuck in limbo after councillor’s arrest

Bulawayo Ward 22 Councillor Bruce Mmeli Moyo says his arrest last year severely disrupted several planned projects for the ward.

Moyo, who was detained for nearly a month for allegedly staging an anti-government protest, highlighted the challenges that arose due to his absence.

Speaking at the recent State of the Ward address, where he presented the ward’s 2024 performance report, Moyo admitted that some project deliverables were not met due to the unforeseen setback of his detention.

He further noted that upon his release, he was unwell and unable to immediately return to his office, complicating matters further.

“There was a change of events because of my arrest,” Moyo explained.

“In terms of sewerage, we had planned to engage a contractor to treat the sewer. While we didn’t expect daily treatment, we were aiming for a permanent solution. However, our growing population has outpaced the infrastructure. When the pipes were installed, the population was much smaller. Ward 22 has grown significantly since then.”

Moyo said the long-term solution involves redesigning underground pipes to accommodate the increased population.

“The pipes and mappings have been completed and submitted to the City of Bulawayo’s Engineering Department, with the hope they will be funded. The project was supposed to start in October, but when contractors were hired to address hotspots across Bulawayo, Ward 22 was overlooked because I was detained in Khami Prison,” he said.

The councillor expressed optimism that contractors engaged by the local authority would address the ward’s needs in 2025.

Regarding water access, Moyo reiterated his commitment to engaging donors to assist in drilling boreholes for residents.

“We approached Africa Ahead, and they helped repair three boreholes in the ward. If re-engaged this year, we hope they can assist further, ensuring everyone has access to water,” said Clr Moyo.

On the issue of electricity, Moyo reported plans to solarize public lighting.

“In July, we introduced a program to install solar-powered lights with contributions from residents, local businesses, donors, and churches. We purchased lights in August to inspire others, but my arrest disrupted progress. Upon my release, I was too unwell to continue immediately,” he said.

Moyo added that the ward leadership intended to use the retention fund for the solar project to ensure the ward is well-lit by year-end.

Despite setbacks, Moyo confirmed progress on the construction of a youth center.

“We were allocated land in July. This year, we are approaching donors to fund the infrastructure,” he said.

Plans are also underway to modernize the Sekusile vendor rank, inspired by the Egodini project.

“We consulted vendors, and there seems to be no opposition. We need to draft a proposal to modernize the area and manage illegal activities around it,” he explained.

Moyo also reported success in sourcing waste bins for strategic locations in the ward to combat littering but acknowledged that overall performance in 2024 fell below expectations.

“In terms of performance, we are below 50%. We couldn’t meet targets due to the challenges we faced along the way,” he said.

Despite these difficulties, Moyo assured residents that his office remains accessible, with a secretary available at all times.

“We have also appointed square chairpersons who act as local councillors and work with residents’ associations. This ensures continuity, even if the councillor is unavailable due to illness or other circumstances,” he concluded.

Senzeni Ncube

Senzeni Ncube is an accomplished journalist based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, with seven years of experience in hard news, investigative writing, fact-checking, and a keen focus on social development, mining, elections, and climate change. She has extensive expertise in reporting community service delivery issues, demonstrating a deep understanding of politics, human rights, gender equality, corruption, and healthcare. Additionally, she possesses proficiency in video production and editing and is dedicated to providing high-quality journalism that highlights crucial social matters and amplifies the voices of the community. Senzeni is known for her thought-provoking interviewing skills.

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