Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike
Senior Reporter
THE construction of a world-class industrial park in Mt Hampden that is designed to support the emerging new city and the expansion of Charles Prince Airport is set to begin following the successful eviction of illegal settlers from the project site.
The Sheriff of the High Court, working with law-enforcement agencies, removed more than 700 illegal settlers from a 123,6314-hectare parcel of land, bringing to an end a long-running dispute between the occupants and the lawful owner, Willdale Limited, a brick-manufacturing company.
With vacant possession now secured, the developer has begun mobilising machinery and equipment after receiving formal authorisation from Willdale Limited to proceed with the project.
The company has since confirmed that it has granted permission for the development of the industrial park.
In a statement issued to shareholders, Willdale said the land had been lawfully recovered and handed over to the appointed contractor.
“The company, with the support of the relevant law-enforcement authorities, has successfully regained vacant possession of its land measuring 123.6314 hectares, situated in Mt Hampden, which had previously been unlawfully occupied by third parties,” said Willdale company secretary Mr Mavuto Munginga.
“Following the recovery of the land, vacant possession has been formally granted to the appointed contractor to commence the development of an industrial park on the site.”
Mr Munginga said the project aligns with the Second Republic’s development agenda and is expected to play a key role in transforming Mt Hampden into a modern, globally competitive city.
“The development of the industrial park is in line with the Government of Zimbabwe’s thrust to develop Mt Hampden into a world-class city and will also play a critical support role to the expansion of Charles Prince Airport into a regional hub of trade and commerce,” he said.
He added that the project is projected to improve Willdale’s revenue outlook and support its long-term growth strategy.
“The initiation of on-site works, together with the planned disposal of industrial stands, is expected to enhance the company’s revenue base and may potentially have a positive effect on the company’s share price.
“The additional revenue generated is expected to strengthen the company’s capacity to streamline operational efficiencies and invest in new technology to support long-term growth,” he said.
Mr Munginga urged shareholders, stakeholders and the investing public to exercise caution when dealing in the company’s shares until further updates on the project are issued.
Peter Tanyanyiwa