Published: 14 hours ago

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan, Charles Tawengwa, has praised Ruwa Local Board for its progress in infrastructure and community projects, urging authorities to accelerate development in a bid to achieve municipal status by the end of next year.

Minister Tawengwa toured several projects in Ruwa yesterday, accompanied by Permanent Secretary Cosmas Chiringa and other senior government officials. He expressed optimism about the area's potential, saying, "Compared to other areas that already have town status, you are doing quite well. Let this be your challenge: by the end of next year, you will have attained town status. I am confident you can achieve this."

The Minister highlighted the effective use of community resources in supporting schools, markets, and essential services. "One school, for example, has been able to raise more than a hundred pigs through collective efforts, while others are building early childhood development and primary school blocks. This shows remarkable commitment," he said.

During the tour, Minister Tawengwa visited the Better Days Market in Runyararo, the Ruwa New Town House, Runyararo Primary School, and the Damofalls Poly Clinic. He also inspected a new market under construction, designed to accommodate about 30 traders, provide overnight storage, and reduce conflicts between informal vendors and municipal police. "This development means vendors will no longer be chased around by municipal police. They now have a proper place to operate from," he noted.

The Minister commended the recent commissioning of three classroom blocks and an ablution block at Njegu School, describing the achievements as a testament to the community's determination. On health services, he assured that the government is working to ensure the completion and full operation of the Damofalls Clinic.

Minister Tawengwa challenged the local board chairman and the town secretary to "go full throttle" in advancing developmental projects. Ruwa Mayor, Councillor Michael Mataruka, reaffirmed the board's commitment, stating, "I can assure you that everything has been put in place for Ruwa to attain town status by 2026. We have completed all the paperwork and are only awaiting confirmation, but if things are fast-tracked, we can attain the status early next year."
- The Herald