Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba
GWERU CITY COUNCIL (GCC) has recorded a significant increase in the number of properties under its jurisdiction, rising from 47 000 to approximately 53 000 in recent years. This growth is attributed to a construction boom aligned with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.
The surge reflects the country’s flourishing residential real estate market, which is projected to reach US$85,35 billion this financial year and grow at an annual rate of 5,08 percent, reaching US$104.05 billion by 2029.
Key drivers of this growth include rapid urbanisation, infrastructure development, and Zimbabwe’s economic recovery.
As sectors such as agriculture, mining, and tourism continue to thrive, disposable incomes are rising, fuelling increased investment in real estate.
With expanding urban populations and ongoing infrastructure projects, demand for housing continues to grow, propelling both the city and the nation towards the goals of Vision 2030.
Gweru is experiencing a property boom, with new suburbs being developed to address the city’s housing backlog, which is estimated to exceed 35 000.
These developments include areas such as Randolph suburb, with 1 812 stands, and Mkoba 21, which has unveiled 700 residential stands, among others.
The city is also embracing gated community models, such as the one in Daylesford, as part of its strategy to reduce the housing deficit.
In a recent interview, GCC Assistant Finance Director Mr Owen Masimba stated that, according to a new valuation roll that came into effect in July last year, the local authority recorded a 154 percent increase in total rates revenue — from US$7,4 million to US$18,9 million — driven by the increase in properties.
“The surge in revenue was not due to tariff hikes, which remained unchanged, but rather due to more accurate property valuations and the inclusion of new properties. As per the latest updates from the ongoing supplementary valuation exercise, the total number of properties under Gweru City Council has significantly increased.
“Initially, before the general valuation roll, there were approximately 35 000 properties. However, the updated roll has resulted in the inclusion of over 12 000 newly developed or previously unregistered properties, bringing the total to around 47 000.
“The ongoing supplementary valuation exercise is expected to add an estimated 6 000 more properties, potentially increasing the total to approximately 53 000,” he said.
Mr Masimba attributed the surge in property development to several interrelated factors, including rapid urban expansion.
“Numerous subdivisions have taken place within the municipal boundaries, with the city expanding in response to rising demand for residential housing. There are also more private developers partnering with the local authority to unlock land for development,” he said.
He noted that Gweru’s growing population is also being driven by migration for education, employment, and investment opportunities. Many people are relocating from congested cities such as Harare to Gweru, which offers a slower-paced lifestyle, safer water, and lower pollution levels — making it an attractive place to raise families.
“As a local authority, we embarked on regularisation and valuation of properties. Previously unregistered properties are now being captured through comprehensive audits and GIS mapping, in line with the general valuation roll. The extension of road networks, water supply, and sewer services in peri-urban areas is promoting further development,” said Mr Masimba.
Regarding plans to accommodate the surge in properties in terms of service delivery — including water, schools and health facilities — he said the Gweru Masterplan outlines several strategic interventions to support the city’s growth.
“We’re looking at augmentation of the existing Whitewaters Dam. Feasibility studies for new water sources, including Lubongo Dam to supplement Gwenhoro and Amapongobgwe Dams, are underway.
“In terms of education infrastructure, at least 10 new primary and secondary schools are planned in high-growth areas such as Hertfordshire and Mkoba 21. Collaboration with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and private investors is ongoing,” said Mr Masimba.
He said the development of six new clinics in underserved areas, including Woodlands and Garikayi, is being planned by the local authority.
“Upgrading of existing municipal clinics to polyclinic status under the Health Services Infrastructure Expansion Programme is also underway. These interventions are co-ordinated with key stakeholders and guided by spatial population projections and urban density trends to ensure sustainable service delivery.”
