Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, [email protected]
THE Government has been commended for reviving the long-stalled Beitbridge civil servants’ housing project, a development seen as a major boost to service delivery at Zimbabwe’s busiest port of entry.
The housing programme is also a key legacy project ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations to be hosted by Matabeleland South Province in Matobo District.
The project, located along the road leading to the Beitbridge Border Post, is aimed at easing the acute accommodation shortage that has for years affected Government workers in the border town, forcing many to live in overcrowded or expensive private accommodation.
Under the plan, Government will construct 16 garden flats, providing affordable housing to 64 families, with priority given to workers in essential services such as health, education, security, immigration and customs.
The housing scheme was launched in 2006 but stalled for nearly two decades due to funding constraints.
Its revival under the Second Republic forms part of broader efforts to improve living conditions for civil servants and strengthen service delivery at strategic growth points.
The Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities is implementing the project in three phases, with the first phase comprising four blocks accommodating 16 families, which are expected to be commissioned by the end of next month.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, recently toured the site to assess progress and said the housing shortage had severely hampered staff deployment in the district.
“We are speeding up the completion of this initiative as part of the Second Republic’s legacy projects. This is being done in phases, with the first phase covering four blocks,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
“I have seen engineers and workers on the ground who have assured me that the project is on schedule, provided materials continue to be delivered on time.
“As directed by President Mnangagwa, this project should be completed before the province hosts the 46th Independence Day celebrations.”
Urban and regional planning expert Dr Percy Toriro said Beitbridge’s strategic position as the country’s main gateway to the region made it imperative to prioritise infrastructure development.
“Beitbridge is one of the fastest-growing urban settlements in the country and a critical hub for immigration, customs, trade and public safety. Efficient service delivery depends on the availability of adequate infrastructure, including staff accommodation,” he said.
Dr Toriro said completing the housing project would stimulate local economic activity, improve the living conditions of Government workers and enhance the town’s overall outlook.
Beitbridge District Development Co-ordinator, Mrs Sikhangezile Mafu, said the project forms part of wider Government efforts to address accommodation challenges in the district.
“Many civil servants struggle to pay rentals, which are relatively high due to Beitbridge’s location and proximity to a busy regional and international border.
The housing complex will not only ease pressure on workers but also improve the quality of infrastructure in the district,” she said
Local businessman Mr Remember Ndou welcomed the development, saying it complements the Beitbridge Border Post modernisation programme.
“These housing units will boost the image of our town and improve conditions for those providing essential services,” he said.
Forestry Commission’s Beitbridge District head, Mr Zibusiso Ndlovu, noted that the housing project occupies a prominent location at the entrance of the town.
“Once completed, it will significantly enhance the aesthetic outlook of Beitbridge,” he said.
Local business consultant and tax expert Mr Samuel Chimere described the project as commendable and called for wider stakeholder participation.
“It would be encouraging to see corporates and local business people supporting the initiative. Such partnerships would speed up completion while boosting the local economy,” he said.
