DESPITE operating from temporary offices, the Lupane Local Board has unveiled an ambitious development plan for 2026, headlined by the construction of its long-awaited headquarters.
Located 172 kilometres from Bulawayo along the Victoria Falls Highway, the local authority serves approximately 8 224 residents.
In an interview with Southern Eye, Lupane Local Board chief executive officer Chalton Moyo outlined key projects slated for implementation this year, contingent upon the availability of resources and stakeholder co-operation.
“Even though we are a small local authority, we are dreaming big,” he stated.
“Resources permitting, we are starting construction of our new offices from slab level upwards this year.”
The board identified a site and carried out construction up to box level.
Moyo indicated that US$80 000 has been allocated to advance the project in 2026, at an estimated cost of US$360 000.
The CEO emphasised that public awareness of the board’s plans is crucial for garnering the necessary community support.
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The plans were formulated following extensive stakeholder consultations during budget meetings.
“Hopefully, by understanding the local authority’s plans — ratepayers will begin to support council through timeous payment of rates so that, in turn, council will be able to render effective service delivery.”
According to Moyo, the key development pipeline includes several infrastructure upgrades.
“The Lupane bus terminus will be fully paved and upgraded with necessary infrastructure. An adjacent truck stop will be established, leveraging on existing modern ablution facilities.
“The board will continue servicing approximately 300 medium-density stands in Mtshibini, a project initiated in December 2025,” he said.
“Additionally, plans are in place to embark on servicing 890 high-density stands in the same suburb, through a combination of internal capacity and private land developers.
“Road construction projects are also planned, supported by the intended purchase of new machinery, including a grader and a 20 000-litre motorised bowser, to enhance operational effectiveness.”
Lupane Local Board operates under the mentorship of the Bulawayo City Council.
Its water reticulation system is dependent on a dam with a capacity of 40 million cubic metres.
Moyo emphasised that the successful execution of the projects depends on all parties fulfilling their roles, highlighting the board’s commitment to translating its plans to tangible community development.
