‘Decentralisation of national events promotes inclusivity’

Source: The Herald – Breaking news.

 Dr Jenfan Muswere

Herald Reporter

The Government has intensified efforts to decentralise national events such as Independence Day celebrations as part of a broader strategy to promote inclusive economic and social development, national cohesion and unity, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said yesterday.

He said President Mnangagwa had directed that the hosting of key national events be spread across various provinces and districts, particularly those that were previously marginalised.

“For ensuring that no one is excluded, His Excellency the President has directed that we utilise the decentralisation and devolution of national events as part of an inclusive strategy,” said Dr Muswere.

“The aim is to implement a sustainable economic and social development programme that fosters national cohesion, unity and inclusive growth.”

He said the new thrust ensures that the whole-of-Government approach is embedded in districts that were left behind during the Covid-19 pandemic, with the intention of building local capacity and accelerating service delivery.

“As part of the strategy, Government is focusing attention on particular districts, especially those marginalised during the pandemic, to ensure capacity-building. We now have a comprehensive framework that conducts district-level analysis in terms of growth potential and existing deficiencies,” he said.

“This framework will be presented to Cabinet where a detailed review of each district’s challenges will be undertaken, followed by a budgetary framework to support the completion of developmental works. All these efforts are being aligned to the country’s Vision 2028 goals.”

Dr Muswere said the hosting of this year’s main Independence Day celebrations in the Midlands province was a practical example of the President’s directive and commitment to decentralisation.

He said national events were no longer the preserve of the capital, but a shared national experience aimed at uniting the country and spurring economic activity in different regions.

Turning to the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, Dr Muswere said the event had grown significantly in terms of both quantity and quality of exhibits, a development that demonstrates rising investor and stakeholder confidence.

“This year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair has seen an increase in the number of exhibitors and the overall quality of exhibits. The scale of this year’s programme is a clear demonstration of national progress and preparedness,” he said.

He added that hosting President Chapo for the official opening was part of Zimbabwe’s strategy to foster regional trade and address the current imbalance in trade flows.

“This is part of our trade strategy to address the challenges we face in terms of an unfavourable balance of trade, and we are delighted to host President Chapo as part of this growing regional partnership,” Dr Muswere said.

The Minister also took a swipe at charlatans and cyber-terrorists who are bent on causing chaos in the country, saying their machinations will not succeed.