Lupane’s Ward One to be transformed to an agro- residential zone

Nkosilathi Sibanda [email protected]

RESIDENTS and businesses in Lupane, Matabeleland North have been urged to take advantage of opportunities expected to emerge from the development of an agriculture-focused business hub in the area.

Lupane Local Board chairman Mr Thandolwenkosi Nyoni said the local authority was preparing to transform the western part of Ward 1 from a predominantly rural residential area into a modern agricultural hub.

In an interview on Thursday afternoon, Mr Nyoni said the development was expected to create new business opportunities for residents while positioning the Matabeleland North capital as an agricultural centre in the province.

The move by the Lupane Local Board is in line with the Second Republic’s directive for all the country’s 92 local authorities to develop master plans that propel meaningful development and service delivery across board.

“We urge everyone to be part of this development. People must prepare for the changes that are coming. All departments of the Lupane Local Board have put their hands on the deck and ready to work,” said Mr Nyoni.

He said the council envisioned Ward 1 becoming an agri-residential suburb, combining modern residential development with agricultural activities.

The upgrading of Ward 1 to an agro- residential zone was mooted following the establishment of the Spatial Development department in Lupane Local Board.

This, according to Mr Nyoni, will bring the much needed development in most areas under their jurisdiction.

“We want Ward 1 to become what we will call an agri-residential suburb, with improved residential areas that are integrated with agricultural activities. We want to see Ward 1 becoming an area that drives development and contributes to the creation of agricultural employment opportunities in Lupane. Once we do this, with the support of investors, residents and local businesses, more development is set to follow in other areas,” he said.

Mr Nyoni said the transformation would go beyond residential construction, with the local authority seeking to integrate agriculture into the area’s overall development plan.

“Our goal is to have proper spatial planning that will allow us to develop roads, public facilities, workspaces, water infrastructure and schools.

“Residents must work together with the council to ensure that this transformation succeeds,” said Mr Nyoni.

The development comes as Lupane continues with efforts to grow into a modern urban centre and the provincial capital of Matabeleland North.

The focus on integrating agriculture with residential development is expected to contribute to job creation, business growth and improved livelihoods, in line with the Government’s broader development agenda under Vision 2030.

“More is yet to come in terms of development in Lupane. We aim to align our projects to meet the expectations of the people. This is what is expected of us,” said Mr Nyoni.