BCC to demolish old farmhouses

The Bulawayo City Council has announced plans to demolish several former farmhouses that have become hazardous and illegally occupied in suburbs such as Nkulumane and Pelandaba West (Emakhandeni). The decision comes after an assessment revealed that most of the structures, inherited when the council purchased the farms years ago, are no longer safe for human habitation.

According to the latest council report, 26 of the 37 old farmhouses scattered across the city will be demolished, while 11 will be renovated and later leased out to occupants under new terms. Many of the buildings, some with collapsed roofs, cracked walls and unstable foundations, were found to pose "imminent risks to life and property."

The properties, originally reserved for institutional use, have over the years been taken over by illegal occupants. The report notes that some of these individuals have lived in the houses for decades without leases, title deeds or even basic services. The reliance on pit latrines, Blair toilets or open defecation has compounded health concerns in these areas.

Council officials said that despite long-term occupation, the residents do not qualify to claim ownership under acquisitive prescription, as the city has maintained oversight through inspections and other acts of authority.

"The city council retained the right to evict unlawful occupants," the report stated. "Demolition of unsafe structures must follow due process, including giving notice and providing alternatives or social assistance where possible."

Council also highlighted the risks of regularising illegal occupation. Issuing leases for unsafe structures would make the city liable should a building collapse or cause injury. For the 11 houses deemed structurally sound enough for renovation, council is considering issuing short-term leases of five years, provided tenants construct proper sanitation facilities at their own expense.

As part of the resolution, the city will issue formal notices to all current occupants and provide a reasonable timeline before any demolitions commence. Routine inspections will be carried out by the Works Department, while the Water and Sanitation Department will assess existing water infrastructure, including wells and connections.

The latest move is part of a broader effort by the council to restore order, ensure public safety and reclaim properties that have deteriorated due to years of illegal occupation and neglect.