Staff Reporter
Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering one million housing units by the end of this year, citing increased public-private partnerships as a driving force behind the ambitious target.
The latest development in supporting this initiative is the Operation Nehemiah Housing Project spearheaded by the United Family International Church (UFIC),which aims to provide at least 600 low-cost residential stands in Retreat, Waterfalls, Harare.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the project yesterday, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Engineer Benjamin Kabikira, praised the increased participation of real estate players in national development.
“We are impressed with the participation of private sector players in real estate. As Government, we encourage more players to come on board to support the national vision, as spelt out by His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Through private sector participation, we remain confident of achieving the revised target of one million housing units by year-end,” he said.
United Family International Church(UFIC) spokesperson, Pastor Prime Kufa, emphasised the church’s role in addressing the housing gap.
“We recognise the housing shortage in the country and are committed to working with the government to support the national housing delivery programme. This first phase will unlock at least 1 000 housing stands, and we have another project in Norton,” he said.
For many, the project represents the end of years of renting and the beginning of homeownership.
Prospective homeowners, particularly women, expressed their joy and gratitude for the opportunity.
“I am really overjoyed. I want a corner stand so I can decorate and showcase the beauty of my house. I can’t wait for this day!” added one Mrs Magomo.
“I am still young, and this is an opportunity that has come my way. I am really grateful,” another beneficiary shared.
With construction set to be completed within months, their dreams of homeownership are now within reach.
Providing affordable housing for all remains a key priority under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
Since the inception of the Second Republic, Government has ramped up efforts to develop housing units, residential stands, and flats, with official statistics showing that over 700 000 units have already been constructed across the country.
As the Operation Nehemiah Housing Project progresses, Government remains optimistic that through enhanced public-private cooperation, the country will meet its one million housing unit goal, transforming thousands of lives in the process.
