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Leonorah Ncube in Victoria Falls
THE three local authorities in Hwange District, Matabeleland North Province are facing a critical shortage of land, which is hindering their ability to expand and implement much-needed housing projects.
This issue was raised during an interactive meeting with the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, , where councillors and management from Hwange Local Board (HLB), Hwange Rural District Council and Victoria Falls City Council outlined key challenges affecting their operations.
During the meeting, the local authorities expressed concern over the lack of available land for housing projects, which has intensified demand for residential stands.
Victoria Falls City finance director, Mr Neville Ndlovu, said the city is struggling to address its growing housing backlog due to land constraints.
“When we availed 502 residential stands, there was a significant outcry because demand far exceeds supply. We have reached our limit and are appealing for government assistance so that we can address this issue and bring peace to our community,” he said.
Councillors from Hwange RDC and HLB echoed similar sentiments, saying there is an urgent need for land expansion.
HLB Councillor Peterson Ncube called for the Government’s intervention to allocate more land to the local board, particularly given that a significant portion of the remaining land is mountainous and unsuitable for development.
“We urgently request an expansion into Hwange RDC because over 30 percent of the available land is not developable. We need more land to accommodate our growing population and infrastructure needs,” said Clr Ncube.
Beyond land shortages, the local authorities cited high operational costs, fluctuating exchange rates, and persistent cash flow challenges as major hurdles.
Service providers, particularly fuel suppliers, reportedly demand payment in foreign currency, further straining the councils’ financial resources.
In cases where suppliers accept the local currency, inflated exchange rates create additional financial burdens.
Moreover, delays and inadequate disbursement of Devolution Funds are hampering service delivery. Victoria Falls City Council representatives noted that late disbursements make it difficult for local authorities to execute planned projects efficiently.
Low revenue collection from residents also compounds the financial strain.
HLB town engineer Ndabezinhle Thwala revealed that the local authority is struggling to settle debts, exacerbated by Zesa’s recent installation of a prepaid meter at the council’s sewer plant without prior notice.
“We are working to revive our solar plant because we are failing to pay electricity bills.
“The main sewer treatment plant requires about US$500 million for resuscitation,” he said.
Minister Garwe acknowledged the land shortage issue but cautioned that not all requests could be met due to limited availability.
“We will allocate land, but not as much as you are requesting because there simply isn’t enough. Instead, let’s focus on building vertically to maximise space. Victoria Falls City, we have received reports that you have been prioritising people from Harare and Bulawayo over locals,” he said.
The minister said a certain quota must be reserved for local residents. Minister Garwe also assured councillors that the Government is working on improving their welfare, following President Mnangagwa’s approval of a review of their conditions of service, which is expected to be implemented soon.
Online Reporter