By Chantelle T Muzanenhamo
Beitbridge East — Residents of Beitbridge’s Ward 3 encompassing Tshidixwa, Mabidi Siyoka, and White Lodge have convened a meeting with their ward councillor and local stakeholders.
The gathering aimed to discuss strategies for overcoming the key challenges faced by residents.
During the meeting, several critical issues affecting the community were reviewed, including property theft and an alarming rise in nighttime muggings.
To combat these challenges, Ward 3 Councillor Takavingei Mahachi vowed to engage ZESA regarding the installation of street lights and urged the Municipality of Beitbridge to utilize the ward retention fund to install solar street lights in Ward 3.
“Very soon we are receiving solar street lights purchased using the ward retention fund. Council will soon install 15 solar lights for a start, a project which will continue until the ward suggests another project,” he stated.
In his efforts to enhance safety at night, Councillor Mahachi suggested increasing police patrols and establishing Neighborhood Watch Committees (NWC) to foster community-led initiatives.He also urged residents to take precautions by avoiding walking alone at night and securing their valuables, including parking vehicles in safer, monitored areas.
Additionally, the councillor advised residents against entertaining strangers and urged them to report any suspicious activities to the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
He shared contact information for the Officer Commanding Beitbridge District and his team, encouraging residents to reach out for help if they encounter danger.
“Do not risk your lives by trying to fight back the robbers; rather comply and report to the police,” he emphasized.
Councillor Mahachi also cautioned that, given the increase in crime rates, it is unsafe to allow strangers onto their properties, even during the day. He advised property owners to thoroughly verify new tenants before offering them accommodation.
Reflecting on previous community meetings, he noted, “We met in 2023 and resolved to have our streets installed with solar street lights and the solarization of our boreholes. Unfortunately, the polarization of boreholes is more expensive than what we have in our retention budget.”
The councillor’s commitment to engaging with the community and addressing their concerns has sparked hope among residents as they look forward to improved safety and infrastructure in Ward 3.