Tsholotsho Given Town Status
The government has given Tsholotsho in Matabeleland North Province town status and has started development projects in accordance with this decision. Tsholotsho Centre is bustling with activity, with many businesses owned by the diaspora community opening their doors. The government believes that with full utility services in place, Tsholotsho deserves its new town status. Esau Siwela the chairperson of Tsholotsho Rural District Council said:
The town board status is confirmation of our long-held conviction. We know this will create opportunities for us to grow and to see all service delivery taken to a higher level… We are excited by this government stance.
Tsholotsho has a large diaspora community that is enthusiastic about investing in the area’s growth. According to one diaspora development partner, Tsholotsho is poised for growth and has great potential. Another partner believes that this growth will bring many new business opportunities and take Tsholotsho to the next level.
In Zimbabwe, a place is accorded town status by the government through a process that involves meeting certain criteria. The requirements include:
1). Population: A town must have a population of at least 10,000 people.
2). Infrastructure: The area must have sufficient infrastructure, including roads, water, sanitation, and electricity.
3). Economic activity: The town should have a diverse range of economic activities, including agriculture, commerce, and industry.
4). Social services: The area must have access to essential social services such as healthcare, education, and recreational facilities.
5). Governance: The town must have a functioning local government structure with a town council and a town clerk.
If an area meets these criteria and is deemed suitable for town status, the government can grant it the status and start implementing development projects to improve the area’s infrastructure, economy, and social services.
Tsholotsho is a rural district located in the Matabeleland North Province of Zimbabwe. While it was recently granted town status, it may still be in the early stages of development. Here’s a summary of its current status:
Tsholotsho has basic infrastructure like roads and electricity but needs more investment. It has a population of over 100,000 people, meeting the town status requirement. Its economy is based on agriculture and has small businesses owned by the diaspora community, but has the potential for more economic activities. Essential social services like healthcare and education are available but need improvement. The town has a functioning local government structure but requires further development to support growth.
