Sunday Mail Reporter
The $400 million devolution funds expected from Treasury by Karoi Town Council will be used to improve service delivery in the growing town.
Last year, council received $3,1 million that was used to buy a tractor, a tar sprayer machine, including the installation of solar lights and construction of a flea market, among some of the projects.
Council chairperson, Councillor Abel Matsika, said this year’s allocation will help complete several ongoing projects.
“We have been promised $400 million for devolution projects this year. Our hope is to provide our residents with good healthcare, education and water delivery.
“Once we receive the funds, we intend to finish Chikangwe Maternity Clinic, which is currently under construction, and complement it with a fully equipped ambulance,” he said.
The ambulance, which has since been purchased, is now waiting for branding and other fittings.
Cllr Matsika said Karoi intends to improve access to education in the town, whose population has ballooned to over 80 000.
A new classroom block is being built at Westview Primary School, while ablution services will be opened during 2022.
“We are also planning to put up some public toilets in our central business district, and we want to acquire a refuse truck to improve sanitation.”
Cllr Matsika said the council will prioritise projects that come from residents.
“We only manage on their behalf, so there is need for them to realise the effort that is being put by the Government led by His Excellency President Mnangagwa to ensure that Vision 2030 is fulfilled,” he added. Other projects that are lined up include setting up recreational facilities for youths, mainly in high-density areas.
Karoi Town Council secretary, Dr Wellington Mutikani, said investors were flocking into the town, with several tobacco auction floors expected to be opened to service the country’s largest tobacco-producing district.