Peter Tanyanyiwa
Happiness Zengeni
Shelter Incorporated Private Limited Trading as Shelter Zimbabwe, a long-standing player in Zimbabwe’s construction and housing sector, has been officially recognised by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) as the Highest Revenue Contributor in the Construction Industry Medium Business Category for the period January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
The prestigious award highlights Shelter Zimbabwe’s consistent tax compliance and commitment to legitimate, above-board operations, particularly in the sensitive area of land acquisition, setting a vital benchmark in an environment challenged by the prevalence of illegal land barons.
Shelter Incorporated (Pvt) Ltd is actively involved in several residential developments, primarily focused on providing affordable housing and fully serviced stands in high-growth areas around Harare and other urban centres.
Shelter Incorporated’s recognition is particularly significant due to its strict adherence to legal and bureaucratic processes in land acquisition.
Unlike the rampant illegal activities of land barons who often bypass regulatory procedures, the company operates exclusively within the confines of designated local boards and authorities.
Chester Mhende, the Managing Director of Shelter Incorporated, emphasised the company’s firm policy: “Our commitment is to the rule of law. Every piece of land we develop is acquired through the proper channels, working with Local Authorities and the Government. This means our acquisitions are fully recorded, approved, and transferred legally.”
This rigorous process involves:
Submitting monetisation proposals to relevant commissions or councils, as seen in their work in Epworth and obtaining all necessary approvals and permits from town planning and housing departments.
This meticulous approach ensures that all projects, from their Chipukutu and Rose Gardens developments to their long history of supplying serviced and titled stands, are legitimate and that clients receive secure, titled properties, protecting them from the legal woes associated with unprocedural land sales.
The ZIMRA awards ceremony provided a platform for the Government to underscore the critical importance of tax compliance for national development, with Shelter Incorporated being lauded as a key contributor.
The Deputy Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, David Mnangagwa, underscored the significance of these awards in his remarks, stating:
“Your contributions are the lifeblood of Zimbabwe’s progress, supporting the institutions and infrastructure that underpin our schools, hospitals, roads, and broader development.”
He emphasised that “each act of compliance is a brick in the foundation of our shared prosperity,” reminding attendees that taxes represent a “declaration of faith in our nation and a patriotic duty.”
ZIMRA’s board chairman, Mr Anthony Mandiwanza, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how compliance fosters growth:
“Every act of compliance lays another brick in the foundation of our shared future.”
He praised Shelter Incorporated and other winners as role models whose integrity and commitment inspire others.
Shelter Incorporated operates as a fully legitimate and registered entity, a fact underscored by the ZIMRA accolade.
The company consistently meets all its statutory obligations, including timely remittances of Income Tax, Value Added Tax (VAT) and Pay As You Earn (PAYE).
The Taxpayer Appreciation Awards not only celebrate compliance but also reaffirm ZIMRA’s commitment to fostering a culture of responsibility and integrity among taxpayers.
As the nation works towards Vision 2030, the participation and compliance of every citizen are critical for building a self-reliant and prosperous Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter