Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Zimpapers Reporter
IN Umguza District, the landscape is changing. Vulindlela Township stands as more than a development; it is an emblem of ambition, a meticulously planned response to urbanisation, and a sanctuary of hope for families who dream of owning a house.
Under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, Vulindlela is set to deliver 4 500 new residential houses and 16 high-rise flats, a development that aligns seamlessly with the Government’s national housing thrust. At the helm of this transformative venture is GG Property Developers, a private land developer that has already begun servicing stands, paving the way for construction on a scale rarely seen in the region.
On Thursday, the site buzzed with activity as Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Zhemu Soda, toured the development during the World Habitat Day commemorations.
The minister’s presence underscored the significance of the project, which promises not only homes but a fully integrated community.
GG Property Developers co-director Dumezweni Sandi painted a compelling picture of what Vulindlela will become:
“We will also have a fully equipped hospital, shopping mall, education and recreation facilities where we intend to build two secondary schools and four primary schools,” he said.
For Sandi, this is more than bricks and mortar — it is a response to the challenges of urbanisation through rural development. Vulindlela, he explained, embraces smart growth principles and community-driven planning, creating a township that caters to families across all income levels.
“Our development component includes 4 500 residential stands where we will provide serviced land for all families of all income levels. As part of our densification model, we have 16 sites for high-rise flats, which will offer high-density accommodation that optimises space and affordability,” said Sandi.
The township will also feature a shopping mall and commercial centre, transforming Vulindlela into a hub for business and local employment. Around the world, PPPs are increasingly seen as a viable solution for financing large-scale housing projects, and Zimbabwe is no exception.
Minister Soda was effusive in his praise for the initiative.
“Their contribution will significantly boost our national housing stock and bring us closer to achieving the NDS 1 target of one million housing units. Government continues to create a conducive environment for such partnerships through policy support and facilitation,” said the minister.
He highlighted the Government’s adoption of a densification strategy, outlined in the Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy, aimed at reducing infrastructure costs and preserving agricultural land.
Densification, Soda said, means building more homes and businesses within existing urban areas rather than expanding outward — a necessity in a country where land is finite and the economy is agro-based.
Under this policy, 40 percent of all developable residential land must be reserved for cluster houses and high-rise apartments. The ongoing regularisation and sanitisation of informal settlements reflects a broader vision to enhance the appearance, functionality, and sustainability of urban areas nationwide.
“Zimbabwe recognises various forms of security of tenure in housing delivery, including agreements of lease, agreements of sale and title deeds. However, the highest form of tenure remains the title deed, which safeguards the property rights and dignity of its holder, while empowering citizens to access financial resources and engage in income-generating activities,” said Minister Soda.
This year’s World Habitat Day theme, “Urban Crisis Response”, could not be more relevant. Globally, urban areas are grappling with multiple crises — from climate change to conflict — driving unprecedented displacement.
According to the United Nations, 122 million people are currently forcibly displaced, with over 60 percent seeking refuge in cities, putting immense pressure on urban systems and accelerating growth.
