Special Advisor to the President, Dr Gumbo tours Binga District

Ibin Munsaka

The Special Advisor to the President, Joram Gumbo, recently toured government programs and projects in Binga District that were initiated by the President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, during his visit to Binga in 2022. These projects include schools, clinics, roads, and infrastructure at the Binga border post, among others.

Joram Gumbo, who is responsible for monitoring the implementation of government programs and projects, was assessing whether these initiatives have been completed. If not, he aimed to understand the challenges that have prevented their completion within the stipulated time.

During his visit to Chief Siachilaba’s homestead, the Chief appreciated the government’s efforts in installing electricity poles but lamented that the work Is still in progress. The Rural Electricity Agency installed the transformer but did not complete the necessary connections to his house. “I am a Chief; I should not have to travel a long distance just to charge my phones due to the unfinished work,” the Chief stated.

Additionally, he appealed to the government to replace the water pump, as the one currently installed cannot draw water to fill his Jojo tanks, which is also affecting the community.

During the Binga District monitoring tour, Clinical Officer Chandala Mwinde shared with Dr. Gumbo that Siabuzuba Clinic is 18 km away from Binga District Hospital and thus there is a pressing need for an ambulance to serve clinics along the Siabuwa-Gokwe road. The district ambulances are often occupied, leaving no available transport for patients. Mwinde emphasized that the proposed new ambulance will be on standby for emergencies, ensuring that patients are quickly transported when needed.

On the second day of the Binga District Projects monitoring visit, Dr. Gumbo toured the Presidential Fishing Rigs allocated to the Binga community in 2022. These rigs aim to create employment for locals, improve food security, and provide a source of livelihood for beneficiaries.The fishing rigs were intended to benefit chiefs, women, and youth. The monitoring visit revealed that out of the 17 traditional chiefs in Binga, 13 have benefited so far. Among the youth, 4 out of 5 groups have benefited, while all 5 women’s groups have received support. Both youth and women’s groups have 10 beneficiaries per rig.

Dr. Gumbo also visited the Binga border post, where the Immigration Officer for Binga border post Marshall Nyahwema expressed appreciation for the establishment of the border post by the government. He requested that the government expedite the construction of the main border office and provide electricity, as their work relies on machines that require power. The officer also requested the construction of ablution facilities and a water connection at the office, as well as security guards to ensure that no individuals from the Zambian side cross into Zimbabwe without clearance.

On the third day, the Special Advisor toured the Binga Polytechnic. He promised that all the projects he visited are among the 24 initiatives the President promised the people of Binga would be completed.

Dr. Gumbo’s three-day tour of Binga District underscored both the progress and challenges associated with government initiatives aimed at improving the lives of local residents.

While several projects are underway, significant gaps remain, particularly in infrastructure and essential services. The insights gained during this visit will be crucial in ensuring that the government’s commitments are fulfilled, ultimately benefiting the communities in Binga.