Beitbridge launches property survey to enhance urban planning

Beitbridge Municipality has started rolling out a comprehensive property survey aimed at updating its records to improve planning and the distribution of essential services as part of the town’s broader strategy to fast-track its transformation into a modern city.

Granted municipality status in March 2019, Beitbridge’s urbanisation efforts align with the Second Republic’s objective of enhancing infrastructure development in border towns across Zimbabwe. Since its elevation, the town has experienced significant growth, particularly in infrastructure and the property sector.

In a public notice, the town clerk, Mr Loud Ramakgapola, explained the significance of the survey, noting that it will support efficient urban planning.

“This survey aims to update our property records and ensure accurate information for municipal planning and services. Beitbridge’s urban population has doubled every decade over the past three intercensal periods, making it the most populous urban settlement in Matabeleland South,” he said.

“The town is home to more than half of the province’s urban population. The settlement is fast growing both in terms of population and physical urban expansion.”

With over 15 000 properties, many still under development, Beitbridge is experiencing rapid growth both in population and physical expansion. The survey teams commenced work on Wednesday, and the programme is expected to continue until all properties are accounted for.

Mr Ramakgapola said the ongoing property valuation is intended to establish the value of properties, aiding in the calculation of the town’s total worth, including land and improvements.

The resulting valuation roll will also assist in the equitable distribution of municipal rates and services.

The development comes a few months after the local authority began a property valuation process. Dr Nicholas Muleya, an urban planning expert, underscored the importance of the survey.

“It will enable the municipality to assess levels of service delivery, using data to inform evidence-based decision-making, planning, and policy formulation. The findings will reveal service gaps and allow the municipality to devise strategies to address them,” he said.

Dr Muleya said the survey will provide a statistical overview of service delivery metrics such as water supply, sewage systems, waste management, energy sources, and road infrastructure in Beitbridge.

It will also gauge community access to basic services and highlight areas for improvement.

Beitbridge Municipality last conducted a property survey in 2017 when it identified over 6 000 properties. Since then, the town has expanded significantly.

Beitbridge’s urban area is divided into two main sections by the National Highway: Beitbridge Township to the east and Dulivhadzimu Township to the west.