By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Beitbridge-Councilor Oscar Chiromo, the Chairperson of Beitbridge Rural District Council (RDC), has made an urgent plea to the Minister of State for Matabeleland South, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, to assist in addressing the rising cases of stock theft and vandalism of community property in the rural areas.
The appeal was made yesterday during the official handover of Roadrunner chickens to War 15 residents in Beitbridge East.
Councilor Chiromo expressed concern over the recent surge in criminal activities targeting livestock and vital community infrastructure such as borehole cylinders.
“We are witnessing an alarming increase in stock theft and vandalization of water sources, which severely impacts our rural communities. We need urgent support to protect our residents’ livelihoods,” he said.
He also called for increased security measures, suggesting the deployment of neighborhood watch programs and enhanced police patrols.
“It is crucial that we work together to safeguard our elderly residents’ livestock and ensure they have access to clean, safe water. I urge the authorities to consider establishing neighborhood watch schemes to help monitor and protect our communities,” he added.
Furthermore, Councilor Chiromo raised concerns about the decline in the purchase of residential stands from the council, attributing this to price disparities.
“Many residents are now buying land from village heads instead of the council due to the significant price differences. This trend threatens the sustainability and revenue base of our council, and we need to find ways to make council stands more affordable,” he explained.
The plea highlights the growing challenges faced by Beitbridge’s rural communities, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between local authorities and government officials to curb criminal activities and ensure sustainable development.