Zimbabwe's Matapi Makeover Hailed by Parliament on Oversight Tour

The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Local Government and National Housing has highly commended the ongoing refurbishment of the historic Matapi Flats in Mbare. The committee described the project as a pioneering model for urban renewal and a shining example of how public-private partnerships can effectively tackle the country's persistent housing challenges.

Led by its chairperson, Mazowe Central legislator Maxmore Njanji, the committee undertook a comprehensive tour of the redevelopment project. This visit was part of a broader fact-finding mission focused on informal settlements and various urban renewal initiatives across the country. The extensive renovation of the 14 three-storey residential blocks is being spearheaded by Engineer Collins Mnangagwa through ED AID1, in close collaboration with the Government. The primary objective of this ambitious project is to significantly improve the living conditions for the residents, while simultaneously preserving the historical integrity of one of Harare's oldest and most densely populated residential complexes.

Speaking enthusiastically after the tour, Njanji conveyed Parliament's deep satisfaction with the substantial progress achieved. He particularly highlighted the crucial role that private sector partnerships are playing in complementing and augmenting government efforts. Njanji stated, "We were having a fact-finding field visit in terms of informal settlements in terms of urban renewal. We have witnessed the goodness of urban renewal here in Mbare and this is enunciated in the National Development Strategy 2. As Parliament we are happy with the progress that we have seen. We have also observed the goodness of Private Public Partnerships where private players are playing a big role in complementing government efforts."

The committee's visit is an integral part of Parliament's constitutional oversight role, which involves assessing the efficacy of housing delivery programs, the progress of urban regeneration initiatives, and the overall implementation of various development programs outlined under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).

Mbare legislator Martin Matinyanya also expressed his profound welcome for the transformative work at the flats. He noted that the project has successfully restored hope among residents who had endured many years of deteriorating infrastructure. "We are excited by the works being carried out at this place. Before the renovations, the place was not pleasing but as residents we are going to make sure that the renovated blocks are maintained," he affirmed.

The City of Harare confirmed that this refurbishment project aligns perfectly with its broader urban renewal strategy, which is meticulously guided by the recently completed city master plan. Director of Housing and Community Services, Addmore Nhekairo, elaborated that this comprehensive master plan would serve as the guiding framework for all future development across the capital city. "We have completed our master plan processes and we now stand guided by the master plan which is quite a comprehensive document which has been received by the residents as well as the Government. The document will guide development in the city and that is where we are talking about urban renewal. Mbare urban renewal is part of the process and we are happy that our partnership with ED Aid 1 has shown that it is possible," Nhekairo explained.

Historically, the Matapi Flats were synonymous with severe overcrowding, rapidly ageing infrastructure, and lamentable sanitation conditions, earning them a reputation as one of Harare's most challenging residential areas. The ongoing refurbishment endeavor aims to thoroughly modernize the buildings, significantly improve essential services, and ultimately foster a safer and more dignified living environment for all residents.

The parliamentary committee concluded by emphasizing that the valuable lessons gleaned from the successful Mbare project could serve as crucial insights to inform and inspire similar urban renewal programs in other towns and cities across the country. This strategic approach is vital as Zimbabwe endeavors to proactively tackle its significant housing deficits, upgrade dilapidated infrastructure, and enhance the overall living standards in its established high-density suburbs.