Minister Nguluvhe’s Thank-You Rallies Signal Shift Toward Grassroots Governance 

By Regina Pasipanodya 
In a shift from typical post-election celebrations, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe’s recent thank-you rallies in Shabwe, Tshapfutshe, and Langeni offered more than just political flair. They underscored the growing significance of grassroots leadership in shaping Matabeleland South’s future. 

Thousands of people from Shabwe, Tshapfutshe, and Langenito gathered today to celebrate Nguluvhe’s new role as Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution giving a clear message that “real change starts at the grassroots level”. 

Hon. Nguluve emphasised that he was not just thanking voters but starting a conversation about what devolution means in real life.
“Unity, economic dignity, and community safety must come from the people themselves,” he alluded.

The new minister highlighted the connection of national goals with local realities. A key part of his message included President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which lays out a path toward a more prosperous economy. 

“As I finished thanking the rural wards for their large voter turnout in the 2023 elections, I urged people to stay united and support the president’s vision for 2030,” said Hon. Nguluvhe. 

He also addressed the rise in drug and substance abuse among youth, calling it “a silent epidemic eroding our moral fabric.” He encouraged churches, schools, families, and political groups to work together to tackle this issue. 

Another pressing concern was stock theft, which he described as “an economic and psychological war on the rural way of life.” After citing a recent incident where a Langeni resident lost 27 goats to thieves, Nguluvhe stated, “This cannot continue. The youth league and traditional leaders must be the first line of defense.” 

He also handed out live chicks to schools, local leaders, and party groups, framing this as a step toward self-reliance and small businesses. While this act may seem straightforward, it underscores his larger aim of integrating development into the community’s daily life. 

Local headman Sibangani Dube called the rallies “a turning point in the relationship between political leadership and the people.” He noted, “We’ve heard speeches before, but here we received tools—small as they are—for building something ourselves.” 

This blend of gratitude and practical support highlights a growing awareness of devolution’s potential in post-election Zimbabwe. No longer just a top-down idea, devolution under Nguluvhe’s leadership could evolve into a network of small initiatives grounded in culture, safety, and livelihoods. 

While some may question the lasting impact of these symbolic actions, others see them as crucial first steps. “We must start small. A chick becomes a flock. A speech becomes a plan. A rally becomes a movement,” said local youth leader Tinotenda Moyo. 

As Matabeleland South reshapes its role in the national conversation, the tone set by these rallies may affect how devolution develops on the ground. With livestock theft, youth marginalisation, and fragile economies still pressing issues, Nguluvhe’s success will likely depend not only on electoral gratitude but also on the community’s ability to take charge of its future.