Traditional leaders in Beitbridge West have received Starlink internet kits in a move aimed at improving digital access.
Zanu PF Matabeleland South youth quota legislator, Tinashe Mushipe, said the rollout will enhance communication and coordination of development programmes.
“We are bringing connectivity to our traditional leaders so that they can communicate faster and access important information in real time,” he said during a thanksgiving engagement last Sunday with chiefs, headmen and village heads under Chief Tshitaudze.
Mushipe said his office would fund a 12-month subscription for the service and expand distribution to all chiefs and selected headmen in the district.
Stakeholders at the meeting said improved digital access, combined with stronger land governance systems, would help accelerate development planning and improve transparency in local administration.
Speaking during the same event, Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister, Albert Nguluvhe, said orderly land administration remained central to rural development and national planning.
“Land is a critical national asset. We must ensure it is allocated properly and protected for future generations. Any illegal sale of land must stop immediately,” Nguluvhe said.
Nguluvhe said the government was committed to working closely with traditional leaders but stressed that local leadership structures must be respected and strengthened to ensure accountability at community level.
- Veld fires ravage Beitbridge
- Harare suspends Pomona deal
- 340km of Harare-B/bridge highway revamp complete
- Arms of war
Keep Reading
“Village heads must respect headmen, and headmen must respect chiefs. When this structure is strong, development becomes easier to manage and coordinate,” he said.
He also raised concern over rising cases of early child marriages in the district, warning that law enforcement agencies would act against offenders as the government intensifies social protection efforts.
“The law will take its course on those involved in child marriages. We must protect our children and secure their future,” Nguluvhe said.
He encouraged traditional leaders to improve administrative systems by maintaining proper community records and holding regular consultations to support development planning and service delivery.
“Accurate records and consistent meetings are key to resolving challenges before they escalate,” he said.
The engagement brought together traditional leaders under Chief Tshitaudze.
