BY THEMBA ZWANE
BULEKENI– Residents of Bulekeni in Mthombe, under the Zombodze Emuva constituency, have issued a strong message to elected leaders, warning that failure to deliver on development promises could cost them re-election in the upcoming national elections.
The warning was delivered by community representative Joconia Gama during the launch of a footbridge project supported by Microprojects and Engineers in Action. His remarks were made in the presence of Zombodze Emuva Member of Parliament Ntando Mkhonta, the Indvuna yeNkhundla, and the Bucopho.
Gama made it clear that his message was directed not only at Members of Parliament, but also at Tindvuna tetiNkhundla and Bucopho, whom he urged to take community concerns seriously.
“Shayani ligoli nyalo nanifuna sinikhetse ekhetfweni lelilandzelako. Nahluleka kulishaya nyalo besenigadza kutsi sinikhetse ekhetfweni lelilandzelako khohlwani,” Gama said.
Loosely translated, he said: “Act now and deliver what the electorate wants if you hope to be re-elected. If you fail to deliver now and only try to impress us when the next national elections are approaching, forget that we will vote for you again.”
His comments were met with nods of agreement from community members, reflecting growing expectations for visible development and accountability from leaders at all levels of governance.
Meanwhile, Microprojects Environmental Officer Bongekile Tsabedze addressed residents on safety measures ahead of the commencement of construction works on the footbridge, which are scheduled to begin on Monday.
Tsabedze emphasised that safety would be a top priority throughout the project and issued firm instructions to all participants. She warned that alcohol consumption at the construction site would not be tolerated, whether traditional brews or commercial alcoholic beverages.
“Anyone reporting for work while under the influence of alcohol, including those suffering from hangovers, will not be allowed to participate,” she said.
She further cautioned that children and pets, including dogs, are strictly prohibited from the construction site to prevent accidents and injuries.
Tsabedze also highlighted the importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE), urging workers to wear protective clothing such as safety boots, gloves and protective eyewear at all times.
In addition, she outlined health and environmental requirements for the project, stating that toilets must be installed at least 40 metres away from the construction site. Areas designated for food preparation must also be kept separate from work zones to ensure hygiene and safety.
The footbridge project is expected to significantly improve safe access for residents, particularly during the rainy season when river crossings become dangerous.
