Savious Madanhire
The government of Zimbabwe has taken a significant step towards ensuring residents receive quality services commensurate with their payments by approving the Minimum Service Delivery Standards Framework for local authorities.
This framework prioritizes eight key areas, including water supply, sanitation, solid waste management, roads and public lighting, corporate governance, public health, environmental issues and housing and community services.
However, each of these areas has performance indicators, benchmarks and performance standards that will be tracked and evaluated through a real-time dashboard system.
Local authorities will be required to submit data online, promoting transparency and accountability.
According to the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr. Jenfan Muswere, the framework aims to modernize local authorities’ operations, aligning with His Excellency the President, Cde ED Mnangagwa’s “A Call to Action” blueprint, which directs local authorities to develop roadmaps towards achieving Vision 2030.
The Cabinet considered and approved the Minimum Service Delivery Standards for Local Authorities Framework.
The nation will recall that in 2023, His Excellency the President, Cde Dr. ED Mnangagwa, officially launched the Blueprint on ‘A call to Action.
No Compromise to Service Delivery: First stage of interventions to modernize the operations of local authorities towards Vision 2030.
“Local authorities were directed to develop roadmaps towards the attainment of the Vision.
On its part, the Government of Zimbabwe developed minimum service delivery standards to guide local authorities in the implementation of their roadmaps,” said Hon. Muswere.
Additionally, the framework’s focus on corporate governance and public health is particularly noteworthy.
However, by promoting transparency and accountability in local governance, citizens will have greater insight into how their taxes are being utilized, fostering trust and cooperation between residents and local authorities.
Moreover, the emphasis on environmental issues and solid waste management highlights the government’s recognition of the importance of sustainable practices in maintaining a healthy environment; hence, efficient waste management systems and protection of the environment through sustainable practices will contribute to a cleaner and healthier living environment for residents across Zimbabwe.
For many years, residents have been crying out for accountability from their local councils, with grievances which include poor road conditions, unfixed sewers and inadequate waste management.
However, with the framework, residents have been given the power to ignore bills for services that would not have been delivered.ered.
