Lupane Leaders Unite to Tackle Water Crisis, Drug Abuse, and Underage Marriages
Thembelihle Mhlanga
Honorable Mxolisi Charles Sibanda, the Member of Parliament for Lupane West, held a meeting with traditional leaders, including Headman Mthenjwa Khumalo, to discuss strategies for advancing development in Lupane. The meeting focused on addressing critical local issues through unified action and sustainable actions.
One of the primary concerns raised during the discussions was the acute shortage of water in the Dandanda area. Headman Khumalo highlighted the urgent need for a reliable water source, highlighting the longstanding promise of a dam project initiated after Zimbabwe’s independence. “The potential dam that was proposed years ago has yet to materialize, and the people of Dandanda cannot wait any longer,” he stated.
Leaders emphasized the need for unity to tackle these challenges effectively. “We must shun our differences and work together for the betterment of our community,” Headman Khumalo urged, a sentiment echoed throughout the meeting.
Honorable Sibanda addressed additional concerns, including the rise in drug abuse among local youths, which he noted contributes to over sixty percent of mental health cases in psychiatric hospitals. “We cannot ignore the drug crisis that is affecting our young people,” Sibanda asserted. “This issue demands immediate attention from all sectors of society.”
The MP also raised concerns about the troubling trend of underage marriages. “It is unacceptable for parents to marry off underage girls,” he declared, emphasizing that both the husbands and the families involved must be held accountable for such actions. This issue has increasingly become a focal point of community discussions, as local leaders strive to protect the rights and futures of young girls.
Inadequate network connectivity was another focal point, with leaders recognising its importance for development in the area. “In today’s world, connectivity is key to progress,” said Sibanda. “We need to ensure that our community is not left behind in this digital age.”
The collaborative spirit of the meeting was palpable, with attendees expressing a collective determination to address these pressing issues. Stakeholders from various sectors, including education, health, and community services, were encouraged to engage actively in the development process.
Hon. Sibanda and Headman Khumalo re affirmed their commitment to work closely with the community. “Together, we can bring about the change that Lupane so desperately needs,” Khumalo affirmed.
The discussions laid a promising foundation for future initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Lupane. By prioritizing water access, addressing drug abuse, combating underage marriages, and improving connectivity, local leaders are poised to make significant strides toward sustainable development.
