The Harare City Council plans to demolish over 5,000 houses built in illegal settlements across the city, citing 37 High Court orders authorising the action.
The targeted houses are mostly in high-density suburbs such as Kuwadzana, Budiriro, Glen View, and Mabvuku and were built on land reserved for public amenities like schools and clinics.
The Sunday Mail reported that the government has opposed the move, with Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe insisting:
“There are no demolitions that are going to take place. We gave them a blanket ban on demolitions.”
Despite this, Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume confirmed the council’s intention to enforce the demolitions to restore order and uphold the law, blaming political interference for delays.
“We have 37 High Court orders obtained by the City Council and private individuals to evict illegal settlers. These orders have not been enforced due to political interference and excuses that land barons have exploited to continue illegal developments,” Mafume said.
