Story by Josephine Mugiyo
THE Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) President Emmerson Mnangagwa has underscored the Second Republic’s commitment to providing decent accommodation to the citizenry in line with national development aspirations.
He was speaking when he commissioned the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Dzivarasekwa Housing Project in Harare this Wednesday where he handed over 202 houses constructed under the ZDF Dzivarasekwa and Imbizo Barracks Institutional Accommodation Project.
The Head of State also commissioned 54 service vehicles for the ZDF.
President Mnangagwa said the commissioning and subsequent handover of the houses confirms the government’s commitment to providing decent accommodation for the citizenry.
“In line with Vision 2030, the Second Republic, under my leadership is facilitating the provision of housing, which is a fundamental need. Hence today we celebrate yet another milestone that is more than brick and mortar, but also a show of my government’s unwavering commitment to provide modern, safe and affordable housing for both public sector employees as well as citizens in general. The prioritisation of members of the defence forces as they serve, advance our national interests as well as defend the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe is of utmost importance”
The President further highlighted the importance of ensuring the uniformed forces have decent accommodation.
“Providing decent accommodation and safe working spaces are some of the critical enablers for our forces to focus on their primary and most important contribution towards the modernisation, industrialisation and growth of our economy.”
President Mnangagwa also touched on the key role played by the defence forces in the well-being of the nation.
“The peace, security and defence of our nation, remain fundamental requisites and catalysts for economic transformation, enabling all sectors and the general citizenry to engage in productive economic activities. This is guaranteed by our security sector, without having to be distracted by accommodation issues,” said the President.
He further implored stakeholders in the construction industry to play their part in accelerating the realisation of national housing targets.
“I urge stakeholders in the housing and built environment space to play their part towards accelerating the realisation of our national targets. Let us continue to work together towards addressing the housing backlog. Equally, our human settlements must always be accompanied by basic services, including roads, recreational education and health facilities as well as water and sanitation infrastructure. Competing interests over land and planning overlays must never be tolerated. Urban and rural local authorities are urged to ensure strict compliance to building laws and standards.”
On a parting note, President Mnangagwa called on beneficiaries of the ZDF Housing Project to be good stewards of the properties.
