Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo
Zimpapers Business Hub
HOMELINK has implored the Government and local authorities to provide land for the development of affordable residential housing, as the company initiates various housing projects across the country.
This emerged on Friday during the launch of Homelink Park in Imguza, Matabeleland North, where the company unveiled about 191 residential stands.
Zimbabwe faces a severe housing shortage, with an estimated housing backlog of 1,25 to 1,5 million units due to rapid urbanisation, insufficient affordable housing financing and issues with land management.
In his remarks, Homelink board chairman Mr William Manhimanzi reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering quality, sustainable, and affordable housing solutions to Zimbabwe.
Homelink is implementing about four projects, including the Homelink Park in Umguza, Homelink Heights in Harare, Bushmead in Masvingo, and Homelink Estates near Lake Chivero.
“We would like to make sure that we do not just focus on big cities like Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare; we have been to Bindura, we are in Masvingo, we want to be in all the arts of Zimbabwe,” said Mr Manhimanzi.
“We want to partner with the Government to make sure that the dream of housing becomes a reality.
“I’m appealing to all local authorities across the country. I think you have seen what we can do, you have heard testimonies of what we have done before, and we would like to partner.
“Whether you have land you want to develop, we are here to partner with you and ensure that we provide decent accommodation to our populace.”
The Mutapa Investment Fund subsidiary has invested about US$5 million in the servicing of the Homelink Park in Umguza, where roads, sewer systems and other critical infrastructure have been developed.
Mr Manhimanzi said the project is not about residential stands, but it creates an opportunity for families to build decent homes, for communities to thrive, and for wealth to be generated.
“It is a direct and practical contribution towards addressing Zimbabwe’s housing backlog, which currently stands at over two million,” he said.
In his remarks, Mutapa Investment Fund chief executive officer Dr John Mangudya said availing land for housing development will also stimulate investment, create jobs, and accelerate progress towards Vision 2030.
“As we celebrate this important milestone, allow me to humbly appeal for your continued support in making land available in other provinces across the country,” said Dr Mangudya, appealing for support from the National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Zhemu Soda, who was the guest of honour at the event.
Online Reporter