Collins Mnangagwa renovates dilapidated Mbare flats

Engineer Collins Takunda Mnangagwa has launched a major renovation programme at the rundown Matapi Flats in Mbare, Harare, in what is being presented as the first phase of a broader initiative to rehabilitate aging housing infrastructure in the densely populated suburb.

The project is being implemented through ED AID 1 and has already seen technical teams deployed to begin restoration works at the 12-block housing complex.

A team led by ED AID 1 chief executive officer Brian Pande, accompanied by Taurai Pande, Chamunorwa Marufu and Prince Munyaradzi Munangwa, has commenced work at the flats, engaging local artisans to undertake plumbing repairs and repainting.

Speaking during an inspection visit, Pande said the intervention followed an assessment commissioned by Engineer Mnangagwa to determine the most urgent needs at the complex.

"We recently visited these blocks of flats after Engineer Collins Takunda Mnangagwa sent us first to assess what needs to be done," said Pande.

"We have now begun conducting the works. The people here are happy, and this is the beginning of the project. We aim to renovate all the flats in and around this area in line with the mantra of leaving no place and no one behind."

The project targets one of Harare's most densely populated and deteriorating residential areas.

Built decades ago to accommodate approximately 3,000 residents, Matapi Flats are now estimated to house close to 13,000 people, placing immense pressure on infrastructure and basic services.

Years of overcrowding and inadequate maintenance have left the flats in a state of severe disrepair, with residents frequently complaining about broken sewer systems, leaking water pipes, damaged walls, poor sanitation and hazardous electrical wiring.

Housing advocates have previously described conditions at the complex as unsuitable for human habitation.

The renovation initiative comes weeks after Mnangagwa received recognition for his contributions to community development and project management.

In May, he received the Leadership in Socio-Economic Development and Community Empowerment award at the Community Builders in Africa Awards held in Harare.

He was also recently recognised by the Chartered Institute of Project Management Zimbabwe as one of the country's top 40 under-40 project managers.

Supporters say Mnangagwa has combined business growth with community-focused development initiatives, particularly in areas aimed at improving livelihoods and creating economic opportunities.

As head of a diversified business group with interests in mining, logistics and energy, he has been involved in several projects focused on employment creation, local economic development and social support programmes.

The use of local contractors and artisans in the Matapi Flats rehabilitation project has also been welcomed by residents, who say it not only improves living conditions but also creates income opportunities within the community.

For many residents, the renovation marks the first significant intervention at the flats in years and raises hopes that longstanding infrastructure challenges may finally be addressed.

Community members say they are optimistic that the project will improve sanitation, safety and overall living standards while restoring dignity to one of Harare's most historic high-density residential complexes.