Mt Hampden residents face displacement for Zim Cyber City development

Thousands of residents in Turner Farm, Mt Hampden, are facing the looming threat of displacement as the government moves ahead with the development of the multi-billion-dollar Zim Cyber City project, located 26 kilometers northwest of Harare. The massive development, estimated to cost approximately US$60 billion, is part of the country's plans to establish a new administrative capital, known as New Harare.

The cyber city, which is being developed by UAE-based industrial conglomerate Mulk International, will include 250 townhouses, over 80 luxury villas, high-tech office spaces, a 15-storey commercial tower, landscaped gardens, and apartment blocks. Construction is set to begin near the new parliament building funded by the Chinese government. The project will cover an expansive 2.5 million square meters of land.

However, the project has led to growing fear and uncertainty among the local community, many of whom face eviction from their homes to make way for the development. These residents, some of whom have lived in the area for decades, now face uncertainty regarding relocation and potential job losses.

In the months leading up to the project's development, the government exhumed approximately 1,000 graves from the area between June and August as part of preparations. This exhumation process, which was contentious among residents, was officially confirmed following a public uproar. Despite initial denials, the government proceeded with the removal of the remains, prompting outrage within the community.

The government's actions have sparked cultural and emotional distress, particularly concerning the treatment of graves and the lack of proper cultural ceremonies during the exhumations. Many locals were left out of the decision-making process, and the exhumations took place without family members present, which some residents found disrespectful. Additionally, there were allegations that the exhumed remains were handled improperly, with some even speculating about the possibility of mass graves - claims that officials have denied.

"Where have you seen graves being exhumed without any relative of the deceased present?" asked one community member. "This goes against our cultural norms and beliefs."

Although National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) regional director Godhi Bvocho denied the mass grave claims, acknowledging that the exhumed remains were reburied according to cultural practices, the community's discontent remains palpable. Many feel they were given little input or support during this process.

The exhumations were only the beginning of the displacement fears. According to government sources, the full extent of the evictions has yet to be revealed. The affected residents - many of whom have lived in the area for over 50 years - are anxiously waiting to find out where they will be relocated. For some, such as 85-year-old Stima Sophia, the prospect of displacement is especially daunting.

"I have lived here since I was a little girl," said Sophia. "Where will I go at this age? I don't have anywhere else to turn."

Community members are also concerned about the loss of employment. Prawell Bricks, the largest employer in the area, is reportedly being forced to vacate its premises to make way for the cyber city. Workers at the Chinese-owned brick manufacturing company fear job losses, with some already given verbal notices that the company will be closing down soon.

"I don't know what I will do without my job," said Blessing Mbanje, one of the workers. "The money isn't much, but it's better than nothing."

Despite these claims, Prawell Bricks' management has denied plans to shut down, insisting that the company is not going anywhere. However, local government officials confirmed that the land is now owned by the state, and all companies and residents with leases or title deeds have been ordered to vacate.

Legislator Decide Manhanzva, representing Zvimba East, confirmed that the government is still working on the resettlement plan for the affected residents. However, details on how and when these residents will be relocated remain unclear. He assured that the government would ensure no one is left without a place to stay.

"The government will make a plan for them," Manhanzva stated. "President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government will never leave them without a place to stay."

Shingirayi Mushamba, chief director for spatial planning and development in the Ministry of Local Government, confirmed that compensation had been arranged for farmers and landholders in the area, with some receiving payment for improvements made on their land. However, there is no clear plan in place for the hundreds of residents who live on the land but lack formal ownership documents.

Mushamba added that the relocation process is still in the planning phase, but he assured that by mid-2025, the residents would be resettled. He emphasized that the government is working to empower these displaced individuals and provide them with alternative livelihoods.

As the Zim Cyber City project moves forward, the community in Mt Hampden faces an uncertain future, with displacement, job losses, and cultural violations adding to the growing sense of fear. The government will need to act swiftly to address these concerns and ensure that the promises of compensation and resettlement are fulfilled in a way that respects the rights and dignity of the affected residents.