Modern housing for rural Zim: A model for inclusiv...

Modern housing for rural Zim: A model for inclusive development

Philemon Jambaya

The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing housing for all citizens, with a renewed focus on rural communities. This initiative aligns with the National Human Settlement Policy and the broader goal of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income society by 2030.

The country has made significant strides in housing development over the past few years, particularly in urban areas where the private sector has played a crucial role. Building on this momentum, the government is now expanding its efforts to encompass rural districts.

Housing and Social Amenities Minister, Daniel Garwe underscored the importance of modernising housing in rural district centres. He highlighted the Mutawatawa Business Centre in UMP as a model for this approach, featuring four blocks of flats. This template will be replicated across other rural districts to ensure that all Zimbabweans have access to modern, affordable housing.

Garwe also emphasised the government’s role in facilitating housing projects and attracting additional financing. He acknowledged the need for sustainable housing solutions tailored to the rural context, emphasising that the goal is not to create suburban enclaves but rather to provide modern settlements that cater to the needs of rural communities.

The government is actively engaging with the banking sector and pension funds to encourage their participation in housing development initiatives. Additionally, legislative reforms are underway to further streamline the process and attract even more investment.

The expansion of modern housing into rural areas aligns with National Development Strategy 1, which aims to construct one million housing units by 2025. This initiative also contributes to the broader objective of leaving no one and no place behind in Zimbabwe’s development journey.