Peter Tanyanyiwa
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Herald Correspondent
BORROWDALE District Office in Harare’s Ward 18 is undergoing a major renovation, championed by Councillor Rufaro Matsika of Zanu PF.
The project is revitalising a pre-independence municipal landmark that had suffered decades of neglect.
Cllr Matsika’s leadership has not only secured the restoration of this key facility but has also inspired a broader vision as she believes council will now extend similar renovations across all wards, including upgrades to the Town House, council chambers, and other critical municipal infrastructure.
This initiative is closely aligned with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which aspires to create world-class, resilient cities through rapid and effective project implementation.
Since her election in February 2024, Cllr Rufaro Matsika has distinguished herself as a proactive and results-driven leader.
Upon taking office, she found the Borrowdale District Office in a state of severe disrepair—only her own office, previously renovated by the Borrowdale Ratepayers and Residents Association (BRRA), was habitable.
The remainder of the building, including the reception, boardroom, toilets, and kitchen, was described as being in “squatter camp” conditions.
“When I first walked into this building upon taking office, I was genuinely shocked by the state of disrepair,” Matsika reflected.
“Here we have one of Harare’s premier wards, where residents pay amongst the highest rates in the city, yet their district office looked abandoned. It was an embarrassment that I simply couldn’t tolerate.
“This renovation isn’t simply about fixing a roof or replacing ceilings. It’s about restoring dignity to public service, ensuring our employees have a safe and motivating work environment, and demonstrating to residents that their contributions are valued and properly invested.”
“I am particularly proud that we’ve managed to fund this entirely from council resources, without requiring external borrowing or public-private partnerships. It demonstrates that with proper prioritisation and persistent advocacy, we can deliver essential improvements using revenue from our own community.”
The Borrowdale District Office, built before Zimbabwe’s independence, has long served as a hub for local governance and community services.
Its restoration is both a practical necessity and a symbolic reaffirmation of the city’s commitment to maintaining public infrastructure in high-contributing wards.
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