Tinotenda Hove – Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira has come under criticism after celebrating yet another “best performing” award while residents in the province continue to face worsening economic hardships and poor service delivery.

Chadzamira recently hosted a luncheon at Urban Lifestyles Hotel to mark his second consecutive award as the country’s top-performing Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, a move critics say was more about self-congratulation than addressing challenges affecting ordinary people.

Speaking at the event, Chadzamira attempted to portray the recognition as proof of progress in the province.

“This achievement belongs to the people of Masvingo because of their unity, resilience and commitment to hard work,” he said.

The minister also praised Provincial Secretary Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa for receiving a similar distinction for the second year running, with the two officials presenting the awards as evidence that the province was moving in the right direction.

However, some residents questioned the relevance of such celebrations at a time when communities are grappling with deteriorating roads, water shortages, unemployment and rising poverty levels.

During his address, Chadzamira credited President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s devolution agenda for what he described as development success in Masvingo.

“The President’s vision under the principle ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo’ has continued to guide the province’s transformation,” said Chadzamira.

He also applauded civil servants, businesses and development partners for supporting provincial programmes, although critics argue that many projects announced in previous years have failed to significantly improve living conditions for residents.

Chadzamira further urged people in Masvingo to prepare for upcoming national events, including the Sanganai/Hlanganani Tourism Expo and the 2027 National Independence celebrations, saying the programmes would attract tourism and investment opportunities.

“We must be ready to host these major events because they have the potential to boost investment and tourism in our province,” he said.

Despite the optimism from government officials, some observers believe the celebrations and awards are disconnected from the realities on the ground, where many residents continue to struggle with the high cost of living and limited economic opportunities.