High Court orders urgent overhaul of Mbare flats

The man got into a sexual relationship with his sister’s 14-year-old daughter between April and June this year

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

In a groundbreaking judgment, the High Court has ordered the Harare City Council and key Government ministries to urgently refurbish the deteriorating Mbare flats to restore the dignity of thousands of residents who are living in squalid conditions.

High Court Judge Justice Priscilla Munangati-Manongwa ruled in favour of the residents who argued that the authorities have abandoned their responsibilities.

The court found the City of Harare and other Government entities guilty of neglecting their duties, leaving tenants in Matapi, Matererini, Nenyere and Shawasha Hostels living in dire conditions.

The ruling, which has been hailed as a victory for urban housing rights, compels authorities to act swiftly to rehabilitate the flats, restore essential services and ensure residents’ safety.

“The City of Harare has breached its legal duty to the residents or tenants by completely neglecting the basic duties and obligations of a landlord and local authority,” the court ruled.

“The City of Harare is compelled to fulfill its statutory and common law obligations to make the hostels safe and fit for human habitation.”

The court directed the local authority to restore water and sewer systems, clean and sanitise the flats, resume regular refuse collection and install fire extinguishers, warning devices and fire escapes.

Additionally, the Local Government and National Housing Ministry was instructed to provide temporary shelter such as tents for residents during renovations.

They are also required to guarantee access to water, sanitation, electricity, and secure interim measures for those temporarily displaced.

The Health Minister must also take measures under the Public Health Act to prevent disease outbreaks, while the Environment Minister is tasked with addressing pollution in and around the hostels.

The Combined Harare Residents Association and community leader Mr Israel Mabhoo brought the case before the court.

“This is a major step towards restoring our dignity. We hope authorities will act without delay,” Mr Mabhoo said.

All eyes are now on the City of Harare and its partners to deliver the long-overdue transformation of Mbare’s iconic but neglected flats.

Residents, for the first time in years, may finally have some hope for better living conditions.