Bulawayo MP Recognises Impact of ZDDT's Restoration Projects

ZDDT News Correspondent, Ntando Sibanda (NS), caught up with the MP during an Ilima that was conducted in his constituency.

NS: What is your opinion on the restoration activities being conducted by the communities with the assistance of Bulawayo City Council and ZDDT?

PM: They are very good projects. They ease the burden of BCC as we all know that it is struggling due to the economic challenges it is facing. I am also highly impressed by the fact that these activities also engender the spirit of voluntarism, which is a key aspect of “Ubuntu”.

NS: Which other components of “Ubuntu” do the interventions instil in the people?

PM: They also promote important values such as cohesion, unity of purpose and community participation. These are important in that they play a crucial role in developing and restoring our beloved Bulawayo.

NS: What is your relationship with your Councillors?

PM: I have a good working relationship with the Councillors in my Constituency and that is why Cllr Mangena invited me to come and witness this event today. I am glad that ZDDT is working with the Councillors because they are on the ground and interact with the people on a daily basis. I would like to suggest that you also find a way of engaging with MP’s on a higher level so that we can all be on the same wavelength to assist the communities to move together in order to attain development.

NS: How will establishing a relationship with the MP’s benefit the community?

PM: We need people to understand that as an MP, I am part of the team and we need to embrace this to achieve progress. Such a relationship will pave way for engagement at all levels, a trait that will allow communities to mature faster in terms of managing their issues because they will be united. It paves way for a sense of ownership, which is essential for development to be achieved.

The sentiments by the Parliamentarian are in sync with ZDDT’s objectives of emboldening communities to develop ownership, tolerance and inclusivity within a pluralistic society so as to improve citizen participation in issues of governance and democracy.