dyton mupawaenda
Herald Correspondent
TWO major housing projects being implemented by FBC Holdings in Zvishavane are now taking shape, with the Government optimistic that the increase in such projects means the one million housing units target set for year-end is well within reach.
National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Zhemu Soda recently toured the projects, which are part of those aimed at addressing the nearly two million housing backlog.
Minister Soda expressed confidence that the housing target was not only realistic but well within reach and commended FBC for its partnership with the Government in driving national housing development, describing such collaborations as critical to achieving sustainable housing solutions.
“Developments like these give us confidence that our housing delivery target will be met as planned,” said Minister Soda.
The projects visited include the Eastlea Housing Development in Zvishavane, consisting of 98 low-density cluster homes located 1,8km from the town centre.
Completed within a year, the development now boasts fully built homes and supporting social amenities.
The second project, Four Miles, involves the phased servicing of 1 895 residential stands, with full completion expected next year.
Minister Soda highlighted the Ministry’s coordinating role in liaising with key stakeholders to facilitate housing delivery.
He also acknowledged the Government’s efforts in creating an enabling environment for private sector participation, which has resulted in the success of projects like Eastlea and Four Miles. About 80 percent of the revised target has already been achieved since 2021, said Minister Soda.
He also called on more players in the housing sector to come on board, reaffirming the Ministry’s open-door approach under the guidance of President Mnangagwa.
Minister Soda applauded FBC Holdings for complying with the Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy, particularly in ensuring that all requisite infrastructure is in place before occupancy.
FBC Holdings group chief executive officer, Mr Trynos Kufazvinei, said the building society was proud to contribute to national development through strategic partnerships.
“We are pleased to work alongside the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, Zvishavane Town Council, and Runde Rural District Council to provide sustainable housing solutions.
“To date, FBC has delivered over 2 000 housing units catering to a diverse range of clients both locally and in the diaspora,” he said.
Originally, the NDS1 housing delivery target stood at 220 000 units, encompassing serviced stands and constructed homes.
The target applied to the broader housing sector, including contributions from Government, local authorities, private developers, financial institutions, insurance companies, individuals, and corporate entities.
The target covered both rural and urban settlements, ranging from communal areas and resettlement schemes to municipalities and cities.
By April 2023, the sector had already surpassed the initial target, delivering over 300 000 housing units—predominantly in urban areas.
Online Reporter