Country director, Oran Engstrand, said SIDA was willing to work closely with resident and ratepayers associations. We have initiated a programme to work closely with representatives of residents if they are genuine people who want to work towards development. They play a critical role in the development of any town or city. They are watchdogs of the society, Engstrand said.
He urged the Mutare Resident and Ratepayers Association to monitor the operations of the city council following the disbursement of a US$1 million loan to city of Mutare by SIDA.
He said residents through their representatives have every reason to demand improved service from the local authorities.
Said Engstrand: Most local authorities are facing challenges in service delivery in areas like road maintenance, waste and water management. Councils are failing to collect garbage and this has contributed to spread of diseases like cholera. He said the $1 million loan would go a long way in assisting the council to buy refuse trucks and upgrade its waste plant. Mutare will repay the loan in two years and another town will be on waiting list. He said the procured vehicles should be used for their intended purpose and they should be guarded jealously.
Post published in: News