By Thamsanqa Mpofu

Driving development through infrastructure: Epworth Local Board projects in Focus

In pursuit of sustainable service delivery and creating a conducive local environment for development, the Epworth Local Board has embarked on a series of strategic infrastructure projects. These initiatives are designed not only to deal with immediate community needs but also to lay a foundation for future growth and investment.

One of the major projects Epworth is undertaking is road rehabilitation, in which major roads in the area are being upgraded and serviced. The enhanced roads are improving overall businesses and residents’ accessibility to different areas, goods and services. The local authority has been utilizing both Constituency Development Fund through the local Member of Parliament and ZINARA funds for road upgrades, focusing on gravelling, intersection paving, shoulder rehabilitation, and storm water drains and culverts. Eng. Sanganai from the roads department has confirmed that a road is being constructed, which will link Epworth with the Harare-Mutare Highway at Ruwa.

In addition to road rehabilitation, council is promoting public health by constructing modern vendor stalls aimed at promoting inclusive economic participation by residents. Public toilets provide a secure, hygienic, and orderly environment around trading spaces. Epworth Local Board is empowering small-scale traders while improving the functionality of public spaces. Through Devolution Funds, four market stalls are being built at Glenwood Shopping Centre. They include two vegetable market stalls with 18 cubicles each, a flea market, and a stall for electricals. Allocation of the vendor stalls will be prioritized for vendors who are already operating in the area in non-designated areas.

Dr Wilton Mhanda, Epworth Local Board Secretary, expressed gratitude for the Devolution Funds being disbursed to the local authorities.

“We really appreciate the assistance we are getting from the Devolution Fund because we managed to construct a farmers’ market and we have something to show for the funds,” said Dr Mhanda.

Together, these projects reflect a clear commitment to delivering tangible results that uplift communities. They also demonstrate the local authority’s readiness to partner with government agencies, development organizations, and the private sector in driving forward a shared vision of modern, resilient, and inclusive urban development.