Government of Zimbabwe’s Human Settlement Policy to Address National Housing Shortage
Housing in Zimbabwe: A New Era
The Government of Zimbabwe is working on a human settlement policy aimed at addressing the country’s long-standing housing shortage. This initiative is a significant step towards ensuring that every citizen has access to decent and affordable housing. This housing program in Zimbabwe will transform the housing scene of the country.
History of Housing Shortage in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is facing housing shortages. On record, there is a waitlist for housing which exceeds 1.2 million. This shortage is leading to many families living in informal settlements and overcrowded conditions. Therefore, intervention by governments and other stakeholders to ease this shortage is a welcome move by the country.
Housing Program in Zimbabwe
Moreover, a housing program in Zimbabwe, launched by the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, aims to deliver 220,000 housing units by 2025. This program will focus on building affordable and modern homes, with an emphasis on community development and social amenities. Also, these housing units will include help from the private sector to make it a reality.
Key features of the program include affordable housing units and modern amenities, including roads, water and electricity. Additionally, some of the other features are community development initiatives, such as schools and healthcare facilities and emphasis on environmental sustainability and green building practices. This housing program in Zimbabwe is a welcome move to help the citizens.
Additionally, those residing in illegal settlements, regularisation will be done. Furthermore, regularisation is a “staged process of upgrading informal settlements to improve quality of life through provision of requisite on-site and off-site services and tenure“, according to the Zimbabwe National Human Settlement Policy (ZNHSP)
Therefore, this will ensure that those occupying land they bought from cooperatives, if not on undesignated land, will have legal dwelling to their land. Also, those settled on land for other social uses such as schools, clinics and other amenities will be relocated.
Partnerships and Funding
The government has partnered with various stakeholders, including private sector companies and NGOs, to fund and deliver the housing program. The program is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. It will also ease the much-needed shelter in the country
Impact on Housing in Zimbabwe
Furthermore, the housing program in Zimbabwe has the potential to transform the housing landscape in Zimbabwe. It will provide thousands of families with access to decent housing. It will also improve living conditions and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
Conclusion
Finally, the housing program in Zimbabwe under the ZNHSP is a significant milestone in addressing the national shortage. The Government of Zimbabwe’s commitment to providing affordable and modern housing is a step in the right direction. As the program rolls out, it is essential to ensure transparency, accountability, and community engagement to ensure its success.
