Fiscal transfers boost healthcare, education services
THE Government’s implementation of Inter-Governmental Fiscal Transfers has significantly impacted citizens’ livelihoods by allocating financial resources to lower tiers of Government. This initiative has enhanced the provision of basic social infrastructure services such as healthcare, education and sanitation thereby improving the overall well-being of communities.
The Government’s commitment to decentralisation and empowering local authorities to address the unique needs of their communities is evident through this programme.
By providing financial resources to lower tiers of Government, the programme has made a tangible difference in citizens’ lives, improving their access to essential services and enhancing their overall well-being.
One of the key benefits of the programme is the improvement of healthcare services. With increased funding, local health facilities have been able to upgrade their equipment, hire more staff and provide better medical care to residents. This has led to improved health outcomes, reduced mortality rates and enhanced quality of life for citizens.
In addition to healthcare, the allocation of financial resources has also improved the quality of education.
Local schools have been able to improve their infrastructure, hire more teachers and provide better learning materials, leading to improved academic performance and increased access to education for disadvantaged communities.
Furthermore, the Inter-Governmental Fiscal Transfers have enabled local authorities to upgrade sanitation facilities, providing clean water and proper waste management systems. This has significantly reduced the risk of water-borne diseases and improved the overall environmental health of communities.
During the presentation of the Mid-Term 2024 Fiscal Policy last Thursday, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube highlighted a significant achievement under the devolution agenda. He announced that the Zimbabwe Inter-Governmental Fiscal Systems Administrative Manual was adopted and approved by Cabinet on May 7 and subsequently launched on July 10. This milestone marks a major step forward in the country’s devolution efforts.
“The devolution agenda being implemented by Government, especially the allocation of financial resources to the lower tiers of Government as espoused by the Constitution, is having a real impact on the livelihoods of the people through enhanced provision of basic social infrastructure services,” said Professor Ncube.
He said the Zimbabwe Inter-Governmental Fiscal Systems Administrative Manual will play a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability in the use of Inter-Governmental Fiscal Transfers by local authorities. This manual will ensure that funds are utilised efficiently and effectively, and that there is clarity and openness in the management of these resources.
“A total of ZiG200 million was availed under the Programme during the first half of this year with significant progress being achieved in various categories, including the construction of 19 schools, thus ensuring the provision of quality education as well as reducing distances travelled by pupils to access educational facilities,” said Professor Ncube. —chrncile
