Online Reporter
Zimpapers Writer
BINGA Local Board has announced plans to repossess more than 100 residential and commercial stands from owners who have failed to develop them over the past six years.
In a notice, Binga Rural District Council’s chief executive officer, Mr Joshua Muzamba, stated the stands earmarked for repossession include 99 residential and three commercial ones.
He said they will be reallocated to deserving applicants on the council’s housing waiting list.
“The Binga Rural District Council, through Binga Local Board, wishes to inform all individuals who were allocated residential and commercial stands in Binga Township over six years ago that it intends to repossess all undeveloped stands for reallocation,” said Mr Muzamba.
He advised affected beneficiaries to make representations within 30 days from the date of the notice, warning that failure to do so will result in repossession.
“Owners of the identified stands should also present proof of payment to the council for verification,” said Mr Muzamba.
Binga’s housing backlog was recently just above 200, but it’s increasing, especially in the high-density suburbs.
Mr Muzamba said they are in the process of servicing stands, which is an ongoing process.
However, he said revenue collection was a challenge as residents were finding it difficult to pay rates.
Last year, Binga RDC unveiled its comprehensive 20-year masterplan, which covers the period from 2024 to 2044.
The strategic plan is aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and a better standard of living for residents.
The Binga District masterplan is expansive, covering a wide geographical area with specific reference to the Zimbabwe-Zambia international boundary, communal lands and natural features like the Shangani River and Chizarira National Park.
Primary objectives include urban planning, improving infrastructure and residential development, sustainable resource management, with a particular emphasis on agriculture and tourism, community empowerment, and engaging local stakeholders to ensure that residents’ needs are met.
In 2023, the Government upgraded Binga into a local board following a request by local traditional leaders.
Binga district is famed for fishing on the Zambezi River, tourism and a rich culture characterised by art and craft and basketry making.
With an aerodrome, a chain of hotels, a sand beach, a boating industry and booming fishing and craft sectors, chiefs requested President Mnangagwa to upgrade Binga centre into a town.
Meanwhile, Binga RDC has also issued a separate notice announcing plans to auction 40 stray livestock, including cattle, sheep and goats.
“Notice is hereby given that in terms of the Rural District Council Act (Chapter 23:13), as read with the Stock Trespass Act, Binga Rural District Council will be conducting an auction sale for stray livestock in Kabuba, Zuka, Siampongo, Ntundazi, Lusulu, Zyakamana, Sikomena, Siabuwa and Kalungwizi business centres,” the notice read.
Bongani Ndlovu