By Admire Chitsungo
Residents’ associations have welcomed the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works’ directive suspending workshops, seminars, conferences, foreign travel and look-and-learn visits by local authorities, saying the move could help councils prioritise service delivery.
In a circular dated May 27, 2026, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe announced an immediate embargo on such activities involving financial and time commitments by local authorities.
The Ministry said it had raised concerns over the increasing number of costly activities being undertaken by councils, which it said could divert resources from service delivery priorities.
According to the directive, local authorities will not be allowed to participate in or facilitate workshops, conferences, foreign travel and related activities without prior written approval from the parent ministry.
The directive also applies to programmes initiated by government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), development partners, associations and private institutions.
Reacting to the development, Chinhoyi Residents’ Trust executive Peter Liwanda said the directive was a necessary intervention to promote accountability and responsible use of public resources.
“We welcome this directive because residents have for years been questioning the value of some workshops, conferences and foreign trips while communities continue to face challenges related to service delivery,” said Liwanda.
He said councils should prioritise essential services such as water provision, refuse collection, road rehabilitation and sewer management.
Kadoma Progressive Residents Association representative Tafadzwa Goliati said the directive could strengthen financial discipline among local authorities.
“Residents are paying rates and expect tangible results on the ground. Public resources must be directed towards improving services that benefit communities,” said Goliati.
The Ministry has directed all local authorities to submit schedules of previously approved workshops, seminars, conferences, foreign travel and related activities through their respective desk officers.
Minister Garwe warned that local authorities and officials found violating the directive would face administrative action.
“The Ministry wishes to advise that non-compliance with this directive will not be tolerated. Appropriate administrative action shall be taken against any local authority or official found to be acting in contravention of this circular,” reads part of the statement.
The directive comes amid concerns from residents in several urban areas over service delivery challenges, including water shortages, sewer challenges, refuse collection and road maintenance.
