Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke-Herald Correspondent
THE Government says the multi-million-dollar Knockmalloch Housing Project in Chegutu is a milestone in the country’s housing delivery programme, reflecting its unwavering commitment to providing modern and affordable homes for all Zimbabweans under Vision 2030.
In August this year, Housing and Social Amenities Minister Zhemu Soda revealed that 70 percent of the revised one million housing units have already been built nationwide, with the Government confident of surpassing the ambitious target set under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
The project, which will feed into the one million houses by this year, is being implemented by the Urban Development Corporation (UDCORP) in partnership with the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities.
It will deliver more than 3 500 residential units, making it one of the largest ongoing public housing developments in the country.
Officials say the initiative aligns with the Second Republic’s realisation that adequate housing is central to national development, social transformation, and rural industrialisation.
UDCORP chief executive officer, Mr Joey Shumbamhini, said the corporation’s revival was proof that good governance and strategic partnerships could unlock tangible results in the housing sector.
“We are building more than houses, we are building sustainable communities,” he said.
“This project complements Government’s drive to ensure every Zimbabwean has access to decent, affordable and serviced housing. It reflects our renewed commitment to transparency, project viability and impact.”
The corporation’s new strategic direction, added Mr Shumbamhini has prioritised accountability, value creation and partnerships with the private sector, a shift that is revitalising the national housing agenda.
He said UDCORP was part of broader efforts to bridge Zimbabwe’s housing deficit, currently estimated at over 1.5 million units, while stimulating employment and growth.
The Knockmalloch project is also expected to serve as a model for sustainable urbanisation, integrating housing with essential services such as road infrastructure, water reticulation, electricity, and community amenities.
For the people of Chegutu, the transformation is deeply personal. Families who once watched the land lie idle are now witnessing the return of hope.
Ms Lillian Choruwa, one of the beneficiaries, said she had waited nearly a decade for the project to resume.
“For eight years I prayed this day would come. Now, seeing real progress on the ground makes me believe I will finally own a home. It’s a dream coming true.”
