Staff reporter
Government, in collaboration with financial institutions and private sector players, is intensifying efforts to address Zimbabwe’s housing backlog, which currently stands at over a million units.
In a significant stride toward this goal, the National Building Society (NBS) has developed over 700 housing stands in Harare’s Glaudina suburb. Among these, nine blocks of flats, designed to accommodate over 200 families, are nearing completion.
During a site tour yesterday, government officials hailed the project as a crucial step toward providing affordable housing for low- and middle-income earners. Special Advisor to the President on Monitoring and Implementation of Government Programmes and Projects, Dr Joram Gumbo, underscored the need for innovative financing models to make housing accessible.
“We must ensure accessible and affordable houses that meet the financial realities of our people. Financing models that reduce the burden on citizens, including mortgage subsidy programmes tailored for low-income earners, are essential,” he stated.
Harare Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Senator Charles Tawengwa, emphasized the importance of cost-effective construction.
“We need to explore housing technologies that reduce construction costs while maintaining quality,” he said.
The Glaudina project, set to be completed next month, has been commended for its modern, well-planned approach. NBS Chief Housing and Mortgage Officer, Engineer Robert Mukome, detailed progress on the initiative.
“The first phase is almost complete and will accommodate 288 families. We are finalizing structures, including painting. Similar programmes are underway in Chinhoyi and Bulawayo,” Mukome revealed.
Harare City Council Mayor, Councillor Jacob Mafume, also expressed support for such initiatives.
“This is exactly what we are calling for. As council, we will provide land for developments that are up to standard, orderly, and modern,” he said.
The nearing completion of the Glaudina Housing Project marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s efforts to address the housing backlog and improve living standards for low- and middle-income families. With similar projects underway in Chinhoyi and Bulawayo, the initiative sets a benchmark for innovative, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions, paving the way for broader national development and inclusive growth.
