By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
MINISTER of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, has warned against delays in the implementation of the Beitbridge Central Business District (CBD) Extension Project, urging all stakeholders to ensure its successful completion.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony held on Monday, Nguluvhe said the project must not become another stalled development initiative, stressing the need for commitment from the contractor, the Municipality of Beitbridge and the business community.
“I urge the contractors, business people and the Municipality that if we start this project, let it be completed,” he said.
His remarks come as Tiger Eye Land Developers, the contractor for the project, has already moved onto the site and commenced servicing stands.
Nguluvhe also called on the contractor to prioritise local employment, saying only specialist positions should be filled from outside the district while general labour opportunities should be reserved for local residents.
“To the contractor, I expect you to bring specialists only and equipment. General labour must be locals. Employ our youth so that they can leave drugs and engage in productive work,” he said.
He further urged the contractor to transfer skills to local workers to ensure they are empowered to participate in future development projects.
Nguluvhe also highlighted the importance of investing in quality infrastructure, calling on engineers to install larger and more durable pipes capable of supporting the town’s future growth.
“Small pipes will burst and result in sewage spillages. We need infrastructure that can accommodate the expansion of the town,” he said.
Nguluvhe said the government envisions a modern and smart Beitbridge, adding that adequate infrastructure should be put in place before relocating traders from the Fresh Produce Market to Tshitaudze Market.
“We want to build a smart Beitbridge. The municipality should first provide proper infrastructure for the relocation of vendors, as is done in other cities, rather than simply moving them,” he said.
Closing the ceremony, Deputy Mayor Councillor John Manatsa pledged the council’s commitment to maintaining the facilities and ensuring inclusive development.
“As Council, we promise to maintain these facilities, enforce order and ensure development remains inclusive. Government cannot do it alone; we need the cooperation of every vendor, shop owner and citizen. Let us not waste this opportunity. May this extension bring growth, jobs and pride to Beitbridge,” he said.
Tiger Eye Land Developers engineer Michael Munodawafa assured residents that the project would create employment opportunities and leave a lasting skills legacy in the community.
“We want to make sure that by the end of this project, locals will have acquired the requisite skills to continue developing Beitbridge,” he said.
The CBD Extension Project is expected to contribute to economic growth, create employment and support the long-term expansion of Beitbridge.