Norwood Villagers Clash with Local Authorities Over Sand Sales Restrictions

Villagers in Norwood, Ward 18 of Bulilima Rural District Council (RDC), Matabeleland South province, are embroiled in a conflict with local authorities over gate takings from sand sales. The villagers earn approximately US$10 per truck that passes through the gate to extract sand, and these proceeds are vital for developmental projects in the area.

The villagers have utilized the funds to construct Norwood Primary School and drill a borehole, among other projects. However, the council's imposed timetable for sand extraction, which restricts operations to between 6am and 6pm, has sparked controversy. Villagers argue that this restriction hinders their business, as they want trucks to be allowed to operate until all customers are served.

The conflict between villagers and local authorities in Norwood highlights the challenges of balancing local development needs with regulatory measures, a issue that resonates with many communities worldwide. If not resolved, this dispute could lead to further tensions and hinder the area's economic growth and development.

Village head Stephen Ncube expressed frustration over the council’s restrictions, calling them anti-development. “There are people who are against development. I was appointed village head about two years ago. We came up with this idea that the funds realised from the gate takings should be converted to some projects after realising that there was no accountability for the funds and that there was nothing tangible in terms of development through this business,” Ncube said.

Former councillor Vusumuzi Moyo estimates that the village could realize at least US$70 per day from sand sales. However, the council's restrictions have significantly reduced the number of trucks that can be served daily, impacting potential earnings. Sand poaching has also become a significant issue, with trucks using undesignated entrances after hours to extract sand.

Bulilima RDC chairperson Land Ndebele defended the council’s decision, stating that the reduced working hours were implemented to curb the crime rate, particularly cattle theft cases, in the area. “Why would someone want to work at night rather than choosing to work during the day when everyone is awake?” Ndebele questioned.

Despite the conflict, the villagers maintain a cordial relationship with the incumbent councillor, Land Ndebele, although he now resides far from the area as a result of the delimitation process. The ongoing dispute has led to challenges in the business, with villagers continuing to accuse officials of imposing laws that hinder the area's development.

The situation in Norwood highlights the tension between local development needs and regulatory measures. Villagers push for more flexible working hours to maximize their earnings and fund vital projects, the council remains firm on its stance to ensure security and order in the area.

Key Takeaways

• Villagers in Norwood, Zimbabwe clash with local authorities over sand sales gate takings.
• Villagers earn $10/truck, funding local projects like schools and boreholes.
• Council restricts sand extraction to 6am-6pm, sparking controversy.
• Villagers want flexible hours to maximize earnings, council cites security concerns.
• Dispute highlights tension between local development needs and regulatory measures.