Thousands of families living in Zimbabwe's expanding housing settlements are still waiting for full access to water, sewer infrastructure and improved roads, highlighting the growing challenge of matching housing development with essential public services.
Gimboki in Mutare, home to more than 30,000 residents occupying 5,200 legally allocated residential stands, has made progress in water and sewer infrastructure. However, many households are yet to be connected to the municipal reticulation network.
According to Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Local Government, Public Works and National Housing Chairperson Maxmore Njanji, improving infrastructure alongside housing development remains critical to creating sustainable communities.
"The findings from our inspections will help us make recommendations that close existing gaps, promote planned settlements, improve infrastructure and advance sustainable urban development," said Njanji.
He said the first phase of the Gimboki housing project has already been connected to the municipal water network, while the main sewer line has been installed and is awaiting final connection.
The City of Mutare has introduced prepaid water kiosks that allow residents without household connections to access clean drinking water through a token-based system.
Njanji described the initiative as a practical intervention that ensures residents continue receiving safe drinking water while awaiting full regularisation and connection to the municipal network.
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Residents, however, raised concerns over increasing cases of double and triple allocations of residential stands. According to council officials, a verification exercise is currently underway to resolve the disputes as part of the settlement regularisation process.
Although Gimboki already has an established road network, Njanji said the roads require rehabilitation and upgrading to improve accessibility and support future development.
He also said housing projects continue to make progress elsewhere, noting that the Dombotombo Government Flats in Marondera are nearing completion.
"We are pleased with the progress made and the quality of work on this project," said Njanji.
The project, which comprises 64 housing units, has reached its final stage, with only electrical installations and paving remaining before occupation.
Water and sewer reticulation systems have already been completed.
The committee also noted progress on urban renewal projects in Mutare, including the refurbishment of Sakubva Stadium and the Green Market, saying the developments are expected to improve public infrastructure, enhance service delivery and improve trading conditions as Zimbabwe continues to address housing demand and urban infrastructure deficits.
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