The High Court has directed the City of Harare and the government to urgently refurbish Mbare flats, citing years of neglect that left residents living in “squalid and intolerable conditions.” The ruling, delivered by Justice Priscilla Munangati-Manongwa, followed an application by residents who accused the authorities of failing to fulfill their duties as landlords and local authorities.
The court ordered the immediate restoration of basic services, including functional water and sewer systems, and improved sanitation at Matapi, Matererini, Nenyere (Magaba), and Shawasha hostels in Mbare.
The court declared that the City of Harare and the ministries responsible for Local Government, National Housing, Health, and Environment had breached their legal obligations.
Justice Munangati-Manongwa compelled the authorities to ensure the flats are safe and fit for human habitation, emphasizing their responsibility to protect the dignity and health of the residents. This ruling is a landmark victory for the affected communities, who had endured years of poor living conditions without intervention.
