For months, Shangani Business Centre had become a dumping ground, blocked drains, overflowing litter, and no sign of official help.
But on Friday, residents took matters into their own hands, backed by a local leader who delivered more than just promises.
Zanu PF shadow councillor for Insiza North Ward 23, Sikhanyisiwe Nkomo, provided an excavator and covered fuel costs to help residents remove waste that had piled up for months without collection.
The community-wide clean-up campaign, spearheaded by resident Botshiwe Ncube, saw locals unite to dig disposal pits, clear blockages, and restore order to their business hub.
“A round of applause to our shadow councillor, Nkomo, for sacrificing her excavator and personally covering diesel costs,” Ncube said.
“Shangani Business Centre was in a terrible state, but now the litter is gone.”
Bitton Ncube, a local miner, also deployed workers to help clear drainage systems and tackle heavily polluted zones.
Businessman Japhet Siziba was acknowledged for additional support.
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The clean-up, however, has cast a spotlight on deeper frustrations.
Residents alleged that the elected ward representatives have shown little visible development, leaving communities to initiate projects alone.
A petition is now being circulated, with signatures collected for submission to council authorities, the Ministry of Local Government, and political party offices.
With the litter crisis addressed, attention has turned to the pothole-riddled road leading to the club hall, a growing hazard for motorists and trucks.
For Shangani residents, the message is clear: when leadership lags, communities lead.
