Mabvuku Infill Stands Spark Flood Fears

Tensions are rising in Mabvuku after residents formally petitioned Harare City Council over the allocation of infill residential stands on land originally reserved as community open spaces and drainage corridors, warning that the developments are exposing the suburb to flooding and serious public health risks.

The petition, delivered on Tuesday, raises concern over developments near Simudzai Primary School in Ward 21, where residents say natural waterways and drainage systems have been blocked, increasing the likelihood of sewer overload and outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

Combined Harare Residents’ Association director David Pasipanodya said the allocation of the stands has undermined basic spatial planning standards at a time when the city is already battling flooding in several areas.

“Mabvuku residents petitioned Harare City Council over the parceling out of infill stands, causing closure of drainage systems and waterways within breathing spaces, exposing the area to flooding, sewer overloading and outbreaks of waterborne diseases,” said Pasipanodya.

Residents are demanding the immediate halt of the allocation, pegging and development of residential stands on the affected land, arguing that it was designated as community open space meant to absorb excess water and protect surrounding neighbourhoods.

The Mabvuku petition comes against the backdrop of recent flooding in Glen View Extension, where Harare City Council distanced itself from responsibility, saying it was not involved in the planning of the area. Pasipanodya said the latest dispute raises broader questions about accountability in the city’s spatial planning processes.

“The Mabvuku petition is a litmus test checking the sincerity of the Harare City Council in addressing spatial planning issues and mitigating the effects of natural disasters, including flooding,” he said.

Contacted for comment by ZimNow , Harare City Council spokesperson Stanley Gama said he was not aware of who authorised the allocation of the infill stands.

“I do not know who made the allocations,” Gama said.

Residents fear that without urgent intervention, continued development on the open spaces will worsen flooding during the rainy season, putting lives, property and public health at risk.