Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Features Correspondent
WHAT started as a modest project on a dumpsite behind Gwanzura Stadium in Harare, has blossomed into a wonderland, illuminating the neighbourhood.
After earning admiration for transforming a once-filthy plot in Highfield into a vibrant flower sanctuary known as Wonderland Gardens, Spencer Tom (38) and Genius Chiringa (39) have been granted the nod by the local council to expand their eco-tourism initiative.
The new site in the bustling Machipisa area, is set to become a second home for their sustainable vision — one flowerbed at a time.
The expansion is part of their bold efforts to promote local tourism, empower youth and clean up the city using recycled materials such as plastic, rubber, metal and glass.
“We are grateful to council for recognising our efforts and giving us space to grow,” Spencer said, standing under the shade of a newly-planted indigenous tree. “This new site was also a dumpsite, but we see potential in every pile of rubbish. Where others see waste, we see beauty waiting to happen.”
At the heart of Wonderland Gardens is the belief that sustainability and community upliftment can go hand-in-hand.
From tyres turned into flower vases to painted bottles used as garden lights, every corner of the garden is a showcase of how discarded items can be re-imagined. “The idea is not just to plant flowers,” explained Genius.
“It is about changing mindsets. We want people, especially the youth, to see that you can build something valuable out of nothing. We aim to inspire and to show that you do not need a big budget to make a big impact.”
The new site in Machipisa will replicate and expand on the concept: lush greenery, floral diversity, creative seating made from sand and tyres and zones for herbal plants known for their medicinal properties.
But the project is not without its challenges. Despite their success, Spencer and Genius still operate on a shoestring budget. Their expansion dream is largely self-funded, with occasional donations of plants and materials from community members.
“We are appealing to individuals, organisations and even the Government to support this initiative,” said Spencer.
“We want to contribute to Zimbabwe’s tourism story, and this is one way to do it — by transforming our urban spaces and empowering local youth through hands-on work.”
Water supply has also remained a major obstacle. Maintaining a flourishing garden in Harare’s dry spells is no easy feat.
“We need a reliable supply of water,” said Genius. “Right now, we carry water in buckets and use drums, but it is not sustainable. With a proper borehole or a mini-irrigation, we could maintain more gardens and employ more young people.”
For Spencer and Genius, the garden is more than a place of beauty, it is a living classroom.
Their long-term vision includes training programmes for youth in urban farming, landscaping, recycling and creative design using waste materials.
“Empowering youth through eco-projects is a win-win,” said Spencer.
“They gain skills, stay off the streets and start believing in themselves. At the same time, we beautify our communities and attract visitors.”
They hope their model will align with Government initiatives aimed at boosting domestic tourism and youth employment.
“We would love to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, or even the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training,” said Genius.
“This can be a blueprint for similar projects in other high-density areas. Tourism is not only about Victoria Falls — it is also about discovering beauty right here in our backyards.”
Locals have been flocking to the Wonderland Gardens for relaxation, small events and photoshoots.
Residents of Highfield and Machipisa are rallying behind the expansion, with some donating flowers and soil and even offering their time to help clean the area.
“People come here and cannot believe this was once a dumpsite,” said Spencer. “That reaction alone shows us we’re on the right path.”
The expanded site is expected to feature more than 80 flower species, shaded walkways and resting areas that double as educational zones about recycling and conservation. Though their journey is still unfolding, the impact of Wonderland Gardens is already clear.
What began as a simple desire to clean up their space has become a powerful example of homegrown innovation, resilience and civic pride.
As Genius put it: “We are just two guys with a passion and a purpose. If given the right support, we believe this garden can bloom into something the whole country can be proud of.”
With tools in hand and hope in their hearts, Spencer and Genius have proven that with a bit of soil, some discarded tyres and a whole lot of vision, even the dirtiest corner of the city can blossom into wonder.
