Property firm Zimre Property Investments has launched 56 stand units in Selbourne Park, Bulawayo — a development that has been identified as a testament to the partnership between the company and the local authority in advancing public-private partnerships in infrastructure development.
The US$1 million gated community project consists of 56 residential stands that have been furnished with essential infrastructure, which includes a road network, sewer, water, and drainage system.
In his speech, which was read on his behalf by Councillor Melisa Mabeza, Bulawayo Mayor Cllr David Coltart said the development of the stands confirms the City of Bulawayo’s commitment to delivering accommodation for all residents.
The Mayor said the city recently commissioned three housing projects — one in Mahatshula East, Luveve North, and Emganwini.
“Today, we are here to witness the commissioning of another project in the low-density suburb, showing our commitment to inclusive development, leaving no community behind,” said Cllr Coltart.
“As we commission these stands, let me congratulate Zimre Holdings Limited, through its Zimre Property Investments arm, for showing professionalism in the development of stands.
“As a city, we value partnerships that drive sustainable urban development, as has been witnessed here.”
He said such projects demonstrate what can be achieved when the private sector, local authorities and communities work together for a shared purpose — to build Bulawayo for all.
Cllr Coltart said the development of the Zimre Properties stands is in confirmation of the City of Bulawayo’s policy, where property developers are required to provide infrastructure such as roads, drainage systems, water, and sewer reticulation before setting up superstructures.
He also said the launched stands will contribute to reducing the housing backlog in the city, which has a waiting list of about 144 000.
“It will take a whole-of-society approach to effectively provide housing for our communities, with the private sector being pivotal in the attainment of this goal,” added Cllr Coltart.
“By delivering this project, you are also playing your part in the delivery of 1,2 million housing units by 2030, as set by the central Government — a step towards the attainment of an upper-middle-income society by 2030.
“The City of Bulawayo reaffirms its commitment to producing an enabling environment for all investors in the city. We strive to cut all the bureaucratic processes that may scare away investors.”
In his presentation, Zimre Holdings chairman Mr Desmond Matete said the works done included a 1,4-kilometre road and stormwater investment, 1,1 kilometres of water reticulation, a 120-metre borehole to augment potable water supply, and stormwater reticulation of 0,714 kilometres.
He said housing projects are easy to execute but complicated to conceptualise and coordinate among stakeholders while mobilising the required funding.
Mr Matete said the reason they all converge on housing projects is that such developments stimulate aggregate demand and engage multiple industries that must collaborate to make housing delivery possible.
“For instance, the transport sector will come in; they will pass in the bricks — you’ve seen bricks — there’s a lot of cement which came in. All the transporters then will be looking for contractors to come in,” he said.
“The manufacturers of construction materials — roofs, trusses, doors, window frames, you name it — they also come in.
“Your retailers will be looking to this community to say, what shall we sell to these people who are now in this place — from furniture to groceries to everything else. You may not see it on day one, but that is what housing development does.”
Mr Matete also said Zimre Properties is contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals through its projects, which promote clean water, infrastructure development, collaborations and partnerships, and clean energy, among other initiatives.
Bulawayo Central Member of Parliament, Mr Surrender Kapoikilu, said the nation recognises that for Zimbabwe to prosper, people must have access to decent and affordable housing.
He said partnerships between the Government, local authorities, and responsible private developers are essential in accelerating housing delivery.
“However, as we celebrate this progress, we must speak honestly and protect the interests of our people,” said Hon Kapoikilu.
“I want you to assure me that this development model will be one of transparent allocation and genuine affordability — and I underline that.
“Orderly and accountable processes, equitable access for deserving citizens. This does not just build houses, but it also builds trust in this process.”
Zimre Holdings chief executive officer, Mr Stanley Kudenga, said Zimre is working on various projects across the country, adding that the launched stands will positively impact surrounding properties.
“We’re looking forward to partnering with the Bulawayo Council, which has been a very good partnership for us, to make serious, impactful investments,” said Mr Kudenga.
