HUNDREDS of civil servants under the Accelerated Presidential Housing Scheme are settling into new homes at Emthunzini and Rangemore on the outskirts of Bulawayo as the flagship housing project nears completion, with works now almost 90 percent done.

The neatly-built four-roomed houses, developed by Hawkflight Properties and Maharba Properties, are fully serviced with water, sewer reticulation and electricity, marking a significant step in Government’s drive to provide affordable and decent housing in line with Vision 2030.
The scheme, which targets civil servants on a zero-deposit model, is expected to deliver about 4 000 housing units, shared equally between the two developers.

Financing is being provided through the National Building Society (NBS), backed by pension funds from the National Social Security Authority (NSSA).

During a tour of the project on Friday, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo, together with officials from the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, expressed delight at the pace and quality of work.

“The progress here is impressive. This project meets key human settlement standards and shows what can be achieved when the Government and the private sector work together,” said Minister Moyo.
He commended the companies spearheading the development for delivering quality housing for civil servants.

Adding a political and historical perspective, Zanu PF Bulawayo provincial chairman Cde Jabulani Sibanda, who also attended the event, said the project was a product of the gains of Independence.Politics

“Independence gave us the power to plan and build for ourselves. Even under sanctions, we continue to develop our country.

“Projects like this are part of our national development strategy to achieve full economic independence and sustainable development,” he said.
NSSA general manager, Dr Charles Shava, also welcomed the progress, saying the organisation was pleased to see pension funds being channelled into tangible assets that directly benefit workers.Demographics

“We are happy with the progress at Emthunzini. This is a secure investment that improves lives while ensuring long-term value for our contributors,” said Dr Shava.

For many beneficiaries, the scheme represents an escape from years of renting and uncertainty.