President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of Zimbabwe’s citizens, underscoring this pledge during the commissioning of four blocks of flats in Harare’s Dzivarasekwa suburb. This event marks a significant response to the devastating flash floods that struck Budiriro in December 2023.
The floods, which inundated homes built on wetlands and led to the tragic death of a six-year-old boy, prompted urgent government action. The newly constructed Dzivarasekwa flats, which accommodate 48 families affected by the disaster, symbolize this commitment.
“The four blocks of flats, which can house 48 households, were built in response to the natural disaster that struck our Budiriro residents,” President Mnangagwa stated. “A precious young life was lost, and property was destroyed. Through this gesture, the Second Republic shows its resolve to uphold the principles of humanity and human dignity.”
The President emphasized the growing need for high-rise apartments due to the country’s increasing population. He highlighted the importance of quality workmanship and the government’s focus on urban densification. “In line with our densification thrust, my government is setting the tone for ensuring that 40% of land for human settlement development is reserved for high-rise apartments. Similar projects are being implemented across the country,” Mnangagwa said.
Addressing the issue of land barons—individuals illegally allocating land—the President vowed to crack down on this malpractice. “My government is stamping its authority on the scourge of land barons and will leave no stone unturned to stop this malpractice,” he declared. He urged traditional leaders to remain vigilant and ensure that proper procedures are followed in land allocation.
Acknowledging that some citizens have already fallen victim to these unscrupulous practices, Mnangagwa announced a government program aimed at regularizing affected settlements. “Cognizant of the fact that some unsuspecting citizens had already fallen victim to the land barons, my government has embarked on a program of regularizing some of these settlements,” he added.
In a poignant moment during the ceremony, President Mnangagwa handed over the keys to Mr. Taurai Mukonachimwa, whose family was directly affected by the Budiriro floods. This gesture was symbolic of the government’s commitment to addressing the immediate needs of those impacted by natural disasters.
The Dzivarasekwa flats project is part of the Second Republic’s broader initiative to address Zimbabwe’s significant housing backlog, which currently stands at approximately 1.5 million units. This ongoing effort reflects the administration’s dedication to improving living conditions and ensuring that citizens are adequately housed. The President’s remarks and the commissioning of these new flats underscore a broader commitment to tackling both immediate and systemic issues within the housing sector, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing the needs of Zimbabwe’s growing population.
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