Zvishavane traditional leader, Chief Mapanzure, has commended the newly opened Midlands Park Housing Development and Student Accommodation Scheme, describing it as “a step in the right direction for Vision 2030.” He said the new building model was “a breath of fresh air that will inspire others to follow suit.”
The housing project, officially commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the First Lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa, is a joint initiative of the Public Service Pension Fund (PSPF) and First Mutual. It offers modern residential flats and student accommodation, with more than 700 students set to benefit.
Sabi Gold Mine’s Human Resources Manager, Edmore Masiko, welcomed the development, noting that the mine was happy that quality accommodation was now readily available in Zvishavane for staff, their families, and students.
Deputy Chief Secretary for Presidential Communications in the Office of the President, George Charamba, said the project underscored the role of the State in spearheading infrastructural development under conditions of limited access to international finance.
“Today His Excellency the President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, officially launched a massive housing project jointly funded by the Public Service Pension Fund and First Mutual. The Project is the latest in a series of real estate projects which Zimbabwe, through its pension funds, continues to successfully complete and place on the market,” Charamba said.
He added that the absence of access to international development capital due to Western sanctions has compelled Zimbabwe to rely on domestic initiatives, with State-led pension funds stepping in to drive investment.
President Mnangagwa and the First Lady also planted a Terminalia sericea (mususu) tree at the park as part of the launch ceremony.
The Midlands Park project forms part of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) Infrastructure and Utilities component, aimed at expanding housing delivery and supporting socio-economic growth.
