"As an accounting officer, you are not there to serve any sectorial or special interest, or show favour to any group. You must act as a representative of the people, putting politics aside, and prioritise administration and the smooth running of the municipality."

These were the words of a highly respected administrator, Mr Shumani Razwiedani, during his farewell function at Musina last December. He was seconded from the Vhembe District Municipality to act as Musina's municipal manager six months ago. He steered the municipality to stability, until the appointment of Mr Johnson Matshivha as the new municipal manager of Musina last week.

Razwiedani said serving as acting municipal manager had been a great privilege. “The time went by in a flash, but it has been a remarkable period, and one that I have enjoyed immensely. Over the past six months, the people in Musina have provided great support and have helped me immensely.”

He thanked Mayor Carol Phiri and her councillors for their support throughout his stay in Musina. “Their support was overwhelming. I will always cherish the good memories of how we worked together in developing the loving community of Musina,” he added.