By Fanuel Chinowaita
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaegNlDATRSuMOm4IU0X
MUTARE, December 19 2024 – In a momentous ceremony held at Sakubva Beithall, the City of Mutare officially launched its Homeownership Program, handing over offer letters to 905 sitting tenants in the Sakubva high-density suburb, specifically in the areas of Maonde, Muchena, and Mundembe. The event was further marked by the commissioning of new plant and equipment aimed at enhancing municipal services.
The Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Eng. Benjamin Kabikira, delivered a powerful message of hope and empowerment, emphasizing the significance of the initiative for the residents of Mutare.
“Today is a momentous occasion, not only for the residents of Sakubva but for the entire province of Manicaland,”
he said, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in the program.
“We are not just delivering pieces of paper; we are delivering hope, security, and a brighter future for communities.”
His Worship the Mayor of Mutare, Cllr. Simon Chabuka, also expressed his pride in the event, highlighting the transformative impact of the program.
“The Sakubva Homeownership Program represents our collective commitment to addressing housing challenges and improving the lives of our people in line with the National Development Strategy and the National Vision 2030,” he stated.
The Mayor urged residents to protect public infrastructure and actively participate in their community’s development, emphasizing the importance of homeownership for personal dignity and community empowerment.
In his keynote address, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Advocate Misheck Mugadza, commended the City of Mutare for its leadership in implementing the Homeownership Scheme.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with the government’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes adequate housing and improved living standards for all Zimbabweans,” said Mugadza.
He emphasized that the program would restore dignity to residents and boost the local economy.
The Homeownership Program includes an affordable payment plan structured over five years, allowing beneficiaries to transition into homeownership with a 20% deposit required within the first six months.
The program aims to meet the needs of various community members, including the elderly, women, youth, and people with disabilities, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusivity and support for marginalized groups.
The commissioning of new plant and equipment was also a focal point of the event, with the Deputy Minister asserting that these assets would enhance the City’s capability in service delivery, including waste management and infrastructure development.
“Let this be a turning point in the way our city functions, paving the way for efficiency, accountability, and sustainable urban management,” urged Kabikira.
The event concluded with a call for unity and collaboration among residents and local authorities, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in making Mutare a better place for all.
As the City of Mutare embarks on this significant journey towards improved living conditions and community empowerment, the voices of hope and determination echoed throughout Sakubva Beithall, marking a new chapter in the city’s history.