New Town Secretary aims to transform Shurugwi into a Model Smart City
n Talent Kapita n nn n Shurugwi – Archibald Ncube, the newly appointed Town Council Secretary of Shurugwi, has unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the town into a model smart city, prioritizing quality service delivery within the next
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Shurugwi – Archibald Ncube, the newly appointed Town Council Secretary of Shurugwi, has unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the town into a model smart city, prioritizing quality service delivery within the next five years. This announcement was made during a press conference at the council boardroom on Thursday, where Council Chairperson Fanuel Machiya confirmed Ncube's successful completion of his probationary period, which began on May 16, 2025.
Ncube emphasized that his primary focus will be on enhancing service delivery, improving infrastructure, and promoting sports, arts, and culture as integral components of Shurugwi’s smart city aspirations. He identified critical priorities, including water provision, infrastructure development and rehabilitation, urban renewal, and housing. He also highlighted the importance of engaging small and medium enterprises, as well as local corporations, to contribute to the town’s development.
“First and foremost, ensuring access to water is my top priority so that the residents of Shurugwi have running water around the clock. This leads into my second priority, which is the development and rehabilitation of infrastructure, including upgrading pipes and installing sewer systems in underserved suburbs,” Ncube stated.
Ncube further stressed that promoting small businesses is vital, asserting that community participation is essential for the town’s progress. Addressing the housing shortage is also a significant focus as he strives to achieve the vision of a model smart city by 2030.
He has already made strides in tackling water shortages by securing US$10,000 and 600 bags of cement from Chinese mining company Chengxi Investments for the rehabilitation of the Fenny Creek Water Tank. Additionally, the council has completed the installation of a trunk sewer line from the town to Manzimudhaka, connecting suburbs like Mambowa.
The local authority is also working towards expanding its boundaries to achieve municipality status. “Shurugwi Town Council has embarked on a bold step to reshape the town’s future through its Master Plan, which proposes a 10km radius expansion. This will incorporate surrounding farms and enhance the town’s infrastructure. We are currently in dialogue with Tongogara Rural District Council, awaiting approval from the Minister of Local Government,” Ncube explained.
Before his appointment, Ncube served as CEO of Bikita Rural District Council and as Administrator for Chivi RDC from 2014 to 2025. He has also worked at Mutare and Masvingo Polytechnic Colleges.
