Mnangagwa commissions US$18,5m Bulawayo students' complex

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday officially commissioned the state-of-the-art Bulawayo Students Accommodation City Complex, a landmark project in Matsheumhlope suburb valued at US$18.5 million. The facility, constructed in record time, boasts 516 rooms designed to house two students each, accommodating a total of 1,032 students.

The project was completed through a public-private sector partnership led by the Public Service Pension Fund, with co-investors including Old Mutual Life Assurance Company, the Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ), the Motor Industry Pension Fund, Zimnat Nominees, and the Old Mutual Local Pension Fund.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, President Mnangagwa hailed the initiative as a testament to the success of strategic collaborations in addressing infrastructure challenges.
A Model for Nationwide Replication

The complex has been housing students from various tertiary institutions since July 2023, particularly benefiting students from the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), who faced an acute accommodation shortage. The model is set to be replicated in other cities, with Lupane State University (LSU) identified as the next beneficiary.

"This project is a towering example of how collaboration between the Government and other institutions can drive impactful results," President Mnangagwa said. "It demonstrates the shared commitment of stakeholders to transform university living spaces through the construction of complementary halls of residence for students."
Addressing Housing Challenges

The University Students and Staff Accommodation Programme (USSAP) was initiated in 2016 to address inadequate and substandard housing options for students. The IDBZ spearheaded the project, acquiring a 1.78-hectare plot in 2017. While the project faced initial challenges, including opposition from the Bulawayo City Council and nearby residents, it has emerged as a critical solution to student housing shortages.

The complex includes modern amenities such as a food court, bank, grocery shops, pharmacy, and 33 commercial units. Advanced security features like CCTV and biometric entrance systems ensure the safety of residents.
A Boost for National Development

President Mnangagwa emphasized the role of infrastructure in enhancing economic competitiveness and quality of life. He highlighted that the Public Service Pension Fund is instrumental in driving long-term economic growth, reducing the pension burden on the Treasury, and creating national assets.

"Total assets accrued by the Pension Fund must broaden the investment portfolio, including smart energy technologies, low-cost housing, health, education, and financial services," the President said.

He underscored the broader impact of such projects, noting their ability to stimulate local businesses, create employment opportunities, and empower communities.
A Zimbabwean Solution for Zimbabweans

The President celebrated the project as a uniquely Zimbabwean achievement. "This is a Zimbabwean project for Zimbabwean people, developed and funded by Zimbabwean institutions and entities," he said. "This fosters national pride as citizens take ownership of our ongoing, irreversible development trajectory."
Transforming Student Living Conditions

The commissioning marks a significant step in addressing Zimbabwe's student housing crisis, where many students have been forced to live in cramped and unhygienic conditions. With modern facilities and high-quality amenities, the new complex is set to improve the quality of life for thousands of students, while serving as a blueprint for similar initiatives nationwide.

This project, President Mnangagwa noted, is a clear demonstration of the Second Republic's commitment to leveraging partnerships and innovative strategies to meet the needs of the people and build a modern Zimbabwe.