Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
THE ongoing renovation of Matapi Flats in Harare by Engineer Collins Mnangagwa is in line with the Government’s drive to beautify towns and cities, a programme that could soon become mandatory under new policy proposals being considered by Government, ED AID1 chief executive officer, Mr Brian Pande, has said.
The development comes after the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, Dr John Basera, recently revealed plans for the proposed initiative during a working lunch on Minimum Service Delivery Standards and Urban State Land Management Policies.
Dr Basera said the proposals would be subject to Parliament’s approval.
The Matapi Flats redevelopment project covers 14 blocks of three-storey residential flats.
Eng Mnangagwa recently dispatched a team led by Mr Pande, to assess the condition of the flats ahead of the rehabilitation works.
The team has since engaged workers to undertake plumbing and painting works, with one of the blocks already being repainted while plumbers repair toilets and other damaged infrastructure.
Residents of Mbare have welcomed the initiative, applauding Eng Mnangagwa for intervening to improve their living conditions.
In an interview, Mr Pande said the renovation programme was progressing well and was also aligned with the objectives of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Vision 2030.
“As you can recall, Zimbabwe’s goal is to become or attain an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 (Vision 2030) and this is the cornerstone of national economic policy,” he said.
“So, we are continuing with this programme in this area and all the works are currently ongoing.
“So far we have since purchased more paints, plumbing equipment, window panes and various other materials that we are using to renovate the first block of flats.”
In May, Eng Mnangagwa was recognised for his contribution to socio-economic transformation and community empowerment after receiving the Leadership in Socio-Economic Development and Community Empowerment Award at the Community Builders in Africa Awards ceremony.
As head of a diversified group with interests in mining, logistics and energy, Eng Mnangagwa has been commended for driving strategic growth while supporting initiatives that improve the livelihoods of communities.
Over the years, he has overseen projects that have strengthened communities through job creation, local economic development and targeted social support programmes.
Built decades ago to accommodate thousands of residents, Matapi Flats have deteriorated significantly over the years.
The flats were originally designed to house about 3 000 people, but are now estimated to accommodate close to 13 000 residents, more than four times their intended capacity.
The overcrowding has contributed to the rapid deterioration of infrastructure and living conditions.
Residents have long complained of broken plumbing, collapsing walls, inadequate sanitation and unsafe electrical wiring, with housing advocates describing the conditions as unfit for human habitation.
The current rehabilitation initiative by Eng Mnangagwa, which is being implemented using local contractors, marks a departure from previous approaches and has been welcomed by community members who have waited many years for meaningful intervention.
