By Flata Kavinga
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube has called on local authorities to adhere to designated land uses and uphold government service delivery standards.
Speaking during the official opening of the US$800 000 Greens Shopping Mall in Mbizo, Ncube said orderly urban development is critical to achieving national economic goals and improving service delivery.
“I urge all local authorities to adhere to assigned land uses, uphold the President’s call to action of ‘No Compromise to Service Delivery’ and enforce by-laws on acceptable building standards and operations,” he said.
The minister said compliance with planning frameworks and regulations would help promote sustainable urban growth, improve the ease of doing business and align development with national objectives.
The Greens Shopping Mall, described as an indigenously owned investment, was developed at a cost of US$800 000. According to Ncube, the project employed about 150 workers during construction and engaged several local contractors.
He said the facility is expected to provide operating space for dozens of small and medium enterprises, with additional employment opportunities anticipated as the mall reaches full capacity.
Ncube commended private sector players for investing in infrastructure development, saying such projects complement government efforts to modernise urban centres and stimulate economic activity.
He also acknowledged Kwekwe City Council’s role in urban development control, urging continued enforcement of planning regulations.
The mall includes retail outlets, service businesses and a conference facility, and is expected to contribute to local economic growth through job creation and increased commercial activity.
Zimbabwe is pursuing infrastructure development and private sector-led investment under its national development strategies aimed at achieving upper middle-income status by 2030.
Ncube said adherence to planning standards and improved service delivery would be key in sustaining the momentum of such investments.
