Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
The rehabilitation of Mbare’s Matapi Flats is gathering pace, with six residential blocks nearing completion under a major refurbishment programme being implemented by Engineer Collins Takunda Mnangagwa through the ED AID 1 initiative.
Matapi Flats, one of Harare’s largest high-density residential complexes, comprises more than 14 three-storey blocks and is undergoing extensive renovations aimed at improving living conditions for residents.
Eng Mnangagwa recently dispatched a team led by ED AID 1 chief executive officer Mr Brian Pande and project managers Messrs Taurai Pande, Chamunorwa Marufu and Prince Munyaradzi Munangwa to assess progress on the project.
A visit by The Herald yesterday showed significant progress, with six blocks having been repainted inside and out, damaged window panes replaced, and ablution facilities repaired, tiled and upgraded.
Assistant project manager Mr Tino Pande said the scope of works extended beyond cosmetic improvements to include critical infrastructure upgrades.
“In terms of the scope, we are undertaking roofing, ceiling, plumbing, glazing, metalwork, flooring and paving works,” he said.
“We are also providing independent water supplies and upgrading the sewer and water reticulation systems.
“We are rejuvenating the entire system and connecting it to the new sewer infrastructure. Old and blocked sewer lines are being removed and replaced.”
Mr Pande said the project had now scaled up considerably and that work was currently being carried out on six blocks simultaneously.
“New sewer pipes, toilets, water systems and glazing are being installed as we give the buildings a fresh look and renewed functionality,” he said.
Mr Pande said the project was transforming living conditions for residents by creating a cleaner, safer and more dignified environment.
Recently, Ward 3 councillor Cde Simbarashe Chanachimwe commended President Mnangagwa for responding to residents’ concerns over the condition of flats in Mbare.
Speaking during a City of Harare pre-budget consultative meeting at Mai Musodzi Hall, Cde Chanachimwe said the rehabilitation of ageing flats had been among the major concerns raised by residents.
“We want to thank His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He is a listening President,” he said.
“We told him that our flats were in a bad state. They came to inspect them, and work started at Matapi Flats, which has 14 blocks. Work is now 98 percent complete.”
Cde Chanachimwe said Mbare has 58 blocks of flats, with rehabilitation work beginning at Matapi before being rolled out to other blocks.
The works have included painting, the installation of showers and toilets, the upgrading of sewer infrastructure and improvements to lighting systems.
He also thanked First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa for supporting the establishment of a drug rehabilitation centre in Mbare, saying the facility would help address substance abuse challenges affecting the community.
Cde Chanachimwe further commended Geo Pomona Waste Management for improving refuse collection and cleanliness in the suburb.
“Mbare used to struggle with refuse collection. There was litter everywhere, but we thank Geo Pomona. They are sweeping at night, in the mornings and in the afternoons,” he said.
Peter Tanyanyiwa