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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
The Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, has urged communities to adopt a results-driven mindset and actively participate in development initiatives within their areas.
Speaking at recent community meetings in Gungwe and Ntepe villages, Dr Marupi, who is also the Gwanda South legislator, encouraged villagers to embrace and support local projects, emphasising the importance of collective effort in achieving success.
He disclosed that he had engaged the police to seek approval for additional police bases in his constituency, highlighting that communities would need to mobilise resources to construct the necessary infrastructure.
“The Second Republic is committed to achieving Vision 2030 of an upper-middle-income society, and this requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including community members. Gone are the days when communities would wait for the Government or development partners to bring development to their doorsteps,” said Dr Marupi.
He called on communities to set aside political differences and prioritise unity and hard work to drive development forward.
“You have elected us to lead and represent you, so let’s work together to bring the much-needed development to our areas. We must not sit back and expect leaders to do everything for us,” said Dr Marupi.
He assured villagers of his continued efforts to engage the Government and development partners to address the challenges faced by their communities.
Dr Marupi expressed concern over the growing lack of respect for traditional leaders, particularly among the youth. He emphasised the critical role traditional leaders play in development and the preservation of culture and tradition.
“It is saddening to witness the level of disregard for traditional leaders, especially among the youth.
Traditional leaders were appointed by the Government to play a vital role in development and safeguarding our culture,” he said.
“Elders must teach the youth to understand the importance of traditional leaders and lead by example in respecting their authority.”
He encouraged traditional leaders to reclaim their authority and safeguard the nation’s traditional values and customs, which are increasingly under threat.
Dr Marupi also called on development partners to recognise and integrate traditional leaders into their programmes, stressing their role as representatives of the Government and custodians of cultural integrity.
“Traditional leaders must maintain their integrity as they are the face of Government in communities. Development partners should acknowledge their role in programming to ensure effective collaboration,” he said. — @DubeMatutu
