Government has commenced the long-awaited process of regularising and servicing residential stands in Gwanda under the Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle Housing Scheme, in a move aimed at bringing the settlement up to standard and supporting the country’s Vision 2030 aspirations.
Contractor Zimbuild is now on site, implementing critical works including sewer infrastructure, water reticulation and road construction, enabling the local authority to deliver basic services and restore revenue collection.
Gwanda Municipality Mayor, Councillor Thulani Moyo, said the project marks a turning point for both residents and council.
“As we journey towards vision 2030, you know our mandate as the municipality is that people get minimum service delivery. We are happy that the contractor is now on site because, as council, we were failing to collect revenue because of a lack of basic services like sewer water and roads,” Councillor Moyo said.
Deputy Director of Estate Management in the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, Engineer Archford Muradzikwa, said the scheme’s regularisation reflects the Government’s commitment to upgrading housing infrastructure nationwide.
“It is a significant milestone for Gwanda and its residents. A budget has already been allocated for 2026, and we will continue to lobby for timely funding to support this development,” he noted.
According to Zimbuild Chief Executive Officer, Dr Tinashe Manzungu, the works are set to benefit more than 600 households.
“This is a great milestone not only for us as Zimbuild but for the great nation of Zimbabwe. We are here to carry out the civil works for sewer reticulation and road infrastructure. In terms of roads, 655 households will benefit, and we cannot afford to fail in this project. The servicing of the scheme aligns with the government’s goal to provide its citizenry with modern, quality, and affordable accommodation,” Dr Manzungu said.
“The servicing of this scheme is particularly significant for several reasons. First, it addresses the long-standing infrastructure challenges that have affected this community. Residents have long yearned for proper roads, water reticulation and sewer systems, the basic prerequisites for a decent living,” Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe said.
Under National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1), the government has taken a holistic approach to planning housing settlements, which includes the provision of basic infrastructure and ICT for the development of smart settlements in both urban and rural areas.
