Tsholotsho North, Zimbabwe — Water scarcity, healthcare gaps, and educational facility needs have emerged as the top priorities in Tsholotsho North, as councillors press MP Libion Sibanda to focus the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) on these critical areas. The push comes after a consultative meeting in Tsholotsho highlighted the urgent needs facing the constituency, with a particular focus on water access.
During the meeting, Ward 21 Councillor Felix Tshuma expressed deep concern over water shortages that have left parts of his ward without reliable access. He urged MP Sibanda to consider drilling boreholes, pointing to the necessity of improving water availability for local schools and residents. “It’s truly disheartening that in this century, we have areas without a single borehole. Using CDF funds to alleviate these water challenges would be ideal,” Tshuma emphasized.
Echoing this concern, Ward 7 Councillor Jabulani Sigadula pointed out that many existing boreholes are old and underperforming. He proposed that funds be allocated to rehabilitate these essential water sources, ensuring a steady supply for affected villagers. “Flushing and repairing these boreholes is essential to restoring their full capacity,” Sigadula noted.
In Ward 8, Councillor Jazz Sibanda recalled a now-dry water source that once provided water to multiple wards, flowing from Manziamnyama River into Cijini Dam. “This source previously served Wards 1, 2, 8, 10, and 21,” Sibanda said, urging for its revival, which he believes could substantially improve water accessibility for the community.
The CDF, set at $50,000 USD per constituency this year, will be disbursed through Zimbabwe’s Integrated Government system (ZIG), with November 30 as the deadline for MPs to submit their spending plans. Sibanda assured transparency in allocating these funds, with the most critical needs taking precedence. A committee will be established to oversee the fund’s distribution, aiming to address each ward’s needs during Sibanda’s term.
“Water remains our most significant challenge,” Sibanda admitted. “Even where water is accessible, residents often face long walks to reach it.” He added that the fund will also address the deteriorating condition of school buildings and health facilities, which he noted require urgent repairs and upgrades.
Tsholotsho Centre will also be considered for development under the CDF to ensure its facilities meet the growing needs of the constituency’s residents, according to Sibanda. “We want to make sure Tsholotsho Centre has the resources to serve all of Tsholotsho effectively,” he said.
As the clock ticks toward the November 30 deadline, all eyes are on Sibanda and his team to deliver a strategic plan that prioritizes the constituency’s most pressing needs and brings tangible development to Tsholotsho North.
