Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
A housing construction boom is unfolding in Hwange, with public-private partnerships (PPPs) driving most of the projects.
Just like all other towns across the country, Hwange is growing, with several ongoing works contributing to the national housing delivery target of one million housing units by year end.
As one moves across the town, they witness virgin land being serviced with new roads, sewer and water being laid out.
A total of 17 000 people are on the council waiting list, and current developments have excited people, including prospective beneficiaries.
“We are happy with what the council is doing and those on the waiting list must get stands to build,” a resident said.
“This work we see here is a good sign that even as we wait for our places to build homes, our chance will come,” another added.
The Hwange Power Station Unit 7 and 8 Expansion Project has resulted in the provision of 170 housing units.
“We brought land to the partner, who then funded the servicing of this whole area. It is a win-win situation for both of us,” Hwange Local Board, Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ndumiso Mdlalose noted.
Another venture between council and a local banking institution seeks to provide over 600 stands by the end of the year.
“Our approach is what the government has been encouraging local authorities to do. Look for partners with deep pockets and develop to provide housing for our people while we also create important revenue streams to enable service delivery,” Chairperson of Hwange Local Board, Councillor Petersen Ncube said.
The government is on record calling for public-private partnerships in the delivery of affordable housing for the people.
