The Zimbabwean government has issued a directive to the Harare City Council to immediately cease ongoing demolitions of residential structures in the capital. This order aims to align local policies with national housing efforts led by the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities.
Minister Daniel Garwe, appointed in 2019 as Zimbabwe’s first Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, told the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) that these demolitions contradicted the government’s current public-private housing initiative. Under this initiative, the ministry seeks to create thousands of affordable homes for Zimbabweans, a commitment Garwe emphasized as central to his role.
“The demolitions go directly against our objectives,” Garwe stated, clarifying that Vice President Kembo Mohadi communicated this directive to local authorities. However, Garwe stressed that the decision to halt demolitions should not be interpreted as an invitation to build structures unlawfully. “This is not a green pass for citizens to build wherever they want. The law will still be enforced,” he warned.
The directive follows the Harare City Council’s recent demolition of homes in the Belvedere area, which were reportedly valued at over $100,000. The council, led by Mayor Jacob Mafume, defended the demolitions, citing notices issued as far back as 2019, warning residents against building in certain areas. According to the council, these demolitions were necessary to uphold zoning laws and prevent unregulated urban development.
