THE credibility of government is judged directly through the quality of services delivered by local authorities, Local Government and Public Works minister Daniel Garwe has said, urging councils to focus on measurable results rather than promises.
Speaking during a validation workshop for 2026-30 strategic plans held in Bulawayo yesterday, Garwe called on councils to develop practical, time-bound strategies with clear implementation pathways and accountability mechanisms.
“It [government’s credibility] is measured by the reliability of water supplies, the condition of our roads, the cleanliness of our towns and cities, and the responsiveness of service delivery systems,” he said.
Garwe underscored that performance assessments for local authorities will be based on actual delivery rather than intentions.
“As has been clearly articulated at national level, excellence will be recognised and persistent under-performance will attract consequences for accounting officers, senior management and policy leadership alike,” he said.
Garwe reiterated that local authorities exist to deliver services efficiently, lawfully and sustainably, with responsibilities ranging from water supply and wastewater management to solid waste collection and disposal.
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Councils are also tasked with promoting waste segregation at source, recycling, road infrastructure development, environmental protection, civil protection against climate hazards and social support for vulnerable communities.
“These are matters of public health, safety and dignity, and they demand competent leadership and disciplined execution,” he said.
Financial sustainability, Garwe added, remains central to service delivery, urging councils to prioritise revenue collection.
Highlighting the Geo Pomona Waste Management Project as a successful example, Garwe said government had resolved that public-private partnership models in solid waste management would be mandatory for all urban local authorities.
“Implementation will commence with the major cities, including Harare as the proof of concept, followed by Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare, Masvingo, Kwekwe, Kadoma and Victoria Falls,” he said, adding that the reform aimed to improve efficiency, environmental protection and public health outcomes.
Garwe revealed that the ministry plans to implement an ambitious programme to replace more than 6 400 kilometres of ageing water pipelines to curb leakages and losses at source.