Tiyani Hahlani

The City of Masvingo has presented a US$31.9 million budget for the 2026 financial year, placing solar energy at the heart of its development priorities while acknowledging continued failures in sewer and landfill management.

Presented on December 3, the budget was tabled by Finance and General-Purpose Committee Chairperson Councillor Benard Muchokwa, who outlined a financial plan anchored largely on internally generated revenue. Of the total US$31 941 996, the city expects to raise US$23 373 588 (73 percent) from its own income streams, with US$8 568 408 (27 percent) anticipated from external sources.

A major highlight of the 2026 budget is the city’s ambitious shift toward renewable energy, with US$5.5 million allocated to the construction of a solar plant. The project is intended to reduce the municipality’s reliance on the unstable national grid, lower electricity costs, and ensure uninterrupted power for essential services.

In addition to the solar investment, council has allocated US$740 000 to Phase 2 of the Water Augmentation project, aimed at easing the city’s persistent water shortages. The Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) sector will also benefit from US$150 000 earmarked for the development of the Manhede SME Business Mall, which is expected to decongest the city centre and create formal trading space.

City officials noted that the budget aligns with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2), emphasising infrastructure development and sustainable growth. However, the presentation also exposed several operational setbacks.

Council admitted it failed to operationalise the new landfill, citing funding constraints that prevented the purchase of essential equipment. The Mucheke sewer truck system also remains non-functional.

Masvingo United Residents and Ratepayers Association (MURRA) director Anoziva Muguti said residents welcomed the council’s responsiveness during consultations but stressed the need for timely implementation.

“We are pleased that the input we provided during the consultative meetings and in our written submissions has been incorporated into the 2026 budget.

“We hope these plans move from paper to action, ensuring that the allocated resources translate into real improvements in service delivery,” said Muguti.

Muguti raised concern over the unresolved Runyararo West dumpsite issue, noting that the High Court ordered the council to stop using the site by year-end. He said MURRA’s legal team reminded council of the deadline, but no update has been provided.

“If they do not meet the deadline, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) will take action, as they are mandated to enforce the order,” he said.