On Saturday, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, handed over eight additional excavators to Region Six, boosting their fleet and ensuring that every local authority has a machine to support their work programmes within their constituencies.

Speaking to those present, he emphasised that the government is committed to equipping municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) with the necessary tools to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

He recalled that when the government first sought the electorate’s support, they promised to improve the regions, and over the years, this has been reflected in the significant increase in subventions to local authorities. The government has worked to ensure these bodies are better equipped to perform their duties.

Minister Mustapha also pointed out that, under the PPP/C government, there has been no increase in fees, rates, or taxes. He said, “This government, the PPP/C government will not sanction any rates and taxes or increases.”

He pointed out that over the last four years there has been a total transformation of the country’s landscape. “As a people we must recognise the government’s role in bringing these relief to the people of the country.”

Minister Mustapha noted that the new machines will not only assist residential areas but, through an improved drainage system, will also benefit farmers.

With advancements across all sectors, he emphasised that there is a revolution underway in the agriculture sector.

“In every single sector we have seen tremendous development taking place, and for the first time in the history of our country we have seen the promises that the (PPP/C) party made in 2020 have been delivered to the people.”

New programmes

He added, “We (government) are doing new things now, the Palmyra stadium that was not in our programme, the 10-day work was not in our programme that is new things for us.”

Further turning to Region Six, Minister Mustapha said that the region is being modernised.

Meanwhile, Minister Mustapha explained that the NDCs will be responsible for developing a work programme for the machines within their areas, while the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will handle the payment for operators and fuel for the machines.

He emphasised that this arrangement is to ensure the machines are used solely within the approved work program.

“These machines must be used for the benefit of the community, the NDCs, and every person,” Minister Mustapha stressed.

He also urged the local officials present to take ownership of the machines and be responsive to the needs of residents. “Ensure you work in the best interest of the residents in the communities,” he advised.