ZANU-PF’s neglect of Matabeleland South fuels resentment

ByEnigma 808

Matabeleland South has faced years of neglect, with local leaders and residents now openly recognizing the region’s lack of development under ZANU-PF rule, first under Robert Mugabe and now under Emmerson Mnangagwa. Since independence in 1980, the area has been left out of national development plans, trapping people in poverty and isolation. While recent infrastructure projects show progress, critics argue that decades of neglect can’t be quickly fixed.

The new Gwanda-Maphisa-Mphoengs road is seen as a necessary step. Minister Albert Nguluvhe said it will reduce the region’s infrastructure gap and ease access to essential services. The road will also improve law enforcement and help with security ahead of next year’s Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa.

ZANU-PF has been criticized for neglecting Bulilima district, which will soon get its first tarred road, nearly 45 years after independence. Some believe the region’s marginalization was intentional, aimed at keeping it excluded from development. While the new roads are seen as progress, many in the region remain skeptical, questioning whether these projects are genuine or merely political moves before national celebrations.

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    Besides writing and being a content creator, Enigma 808 sometimes likes to watch paint dry on walls, listening to ASMR while timing snails racing. Such is life.