Roads US$2 Million, Laptops US$3 Million? Bulawayo Residents Question City’s Priorities For US$13.1 Million

By Staff Reporter
Bulawayo residents have reacted with surprise and scepticism after the City of Bulawayo announced plans to seek borrowing powers worth more than US$13.1 million (R217.18 million), with over US$3 million (R50.06 million) earmarked for ICT equipment and accessories and more than US$2 million (R33.08 million) allocated towards roads.

The proposal was published by the City of Bulawayo’s Office of the Town Clerk on Sunday, 14 June 2026. The local authority said it intends to borrow US$13,162,358 (R217.18 million), subject to approval by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, to fund a number of capital development projects.

The figures quickly attracted attention on social media, with journalist Mduduzi Mathuthu among those questioning some of the proposed expenditures.

Mathuthu wrote on X:

“Roads $2 million and laptops $3 million? Hayi bo @CityofBulawayo”

His post drew thousands of views and triggered a flood of reactions from residents and social media users.

Borrowing Plan Reveals Multi-Million Dollar Projects
According to the notice published by the City of Bulawayo, the proposed borrowing will fund seven major projects.

The largest allocation is for ICT equipment and accessories, which is expected to cost US$3,034,076 (R50.06 million).

Equipment and vehicles account for US$2,653,282 (R43.78 million), while water infrastructure is projected to require US$2,480,000 (R40.92 million).

The city also plans to spend US$2,050,000 (R33.83 million) on sanitation infrastructure and US$2,005,000 (R33.08 million) on roads.

Other proposed expenditures include US$600,000 (R9.9 million) for solar projects and US$340,000 (R5.61 million) for buildings.


The notice states that detailed information on the projects can be obtained from the Finance Director at the city’s offices during normal working hours.

Social Media Users Demand More Information
Several social media users questioned the figures and called for greater transparency regarding the proposed borrowing and procurement processes.

X user @Strika_Cde focused on the cost of borrowing.

“And at what percent is this borrowing happening at? I fear the worst. Local bank interest rates are unbearable. Hopefully, the money is coming from DFIs at sub 10%.”

Another user, @thubevundla, suggested the city should make procurement information public.

“these guys should start publishing quotes for successful bidders ngoba ayikho leyo.”

The phrase “ayikho leyo” loosely translates to “that does not make sense.”

Meanwhile, @manisheretostay expressed concern about possible procurement costs.

“A laptop that costs 500usd will be bought for 1500usd by these guys, lizabona.”

Others called on Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart to explain the proposed figures. @simba86336357 posted:

“@DavidColtart come and explain”

Objections Open Until July
The City of Bulawayo has invited ratepayers and voters who wish to object to the proposal to submit written objections to the Town Clerk.

According to the notice, objections must be lodged no later than Monday, 13 July 2026.

The borrowing powers application was signed by Town Clerk C Dube and published on 14 June 2026.

At the time of writing, no response had been issued by city authorities regarding the concerns raised on social media over the proposed allocations.