Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
MORE than 30 families in Glen View are now facing the imminent threat of cholera.
An investigation by Zimpapers has revealed that these families have built their homes above a network of sewer pipes, which have since burst in an area dubbed “Riverside”.
Some unscrupulous land barons are reportedly charging desperate families between US$300 and US$3000 for 200 to 300 square meters in the settlement.
The main sewage line, snaking from the Mude settlements across a stream to Churu Farm, is riddled with leaks.
Raw sewage spills continuously, creating a breeding ground for disease, especially as the rainy season approaches. Children play near the contaminated water, and families cook and sleep in close proximity to the overflowing waste.
Muriel Chisangowerota, a 33-year-old mother of three, has been living in Riverside for a month.
“My husband was tricked,” she recounts, her voice heavy with regret.
“Some men said the place was approved and took US$100 as a deposit on a US$300 place measuring 220 square meters.
Only after building their small, one-room home did they realize the extent of the sewage problem.
“Our neighbours warned us that the area floods with sewage during the rains,” she added, cradling her one-year-old baby.
Yolanda Chirunga, 27, shares a similar story.
A mother of two, she has been in her two-roomed house for three months.
“We were told it was safe to live here, and we even paid for security to protect us from being double-crossed,” she explains.
In total, she paid around US$800.
“Now, we know the truth. The smell from the leaking sewage is unbearable.”
Some families, she says, were allocated stands in the wetland for close to US$3000.
Speaking to the Glenview community recently, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Senator Charles Tawengwa, issued a stern warning.
“We have zero tolerance for corruption, including allocating residential stands on wetlands, as well as the possession, selling, and distribution of drugs,” he declared.
He promised swift action against those responsible urging home seekers to engage relevant authorities.
“The government aims to deliver millions of housing units, with a target of one million units by 2025 and a renewed goal of surpassing initial targets through collaborative efforts.
“No one will be left behind, so avoid losing your money to land barons,” said Min Tawengwa.
Glen View is no stranger to cholera outbreaks, particularly during the rainy season.
The combination of poor sanitation and contaminated water sources creates a perfect storm for the spread of cholera.
The situation in Riverside is a stark reminder of the urgent need for safe and affordable housing, improved sanitation, and a crackdown on illegal land activities.
Mathew Masinge