Diplomatic villas illuminate Mt Hampden

The transformation of Mt Hampden into Zimbabwe's new administrative hub is steadily progressing, marked by the completion of eight state-of-the-art villas at the Diplomatic Village, a key milestone in the development of the emerging capital.

A site visit on Monday revealed the fully completed villas, nestled in beautifully landscaped surroundings, with additional units at various stages of construction. The villas, set among lush green lawns and gently rolling terrain, reflect the Government's commitment to world-class urban infrastructure, aligning with the nearby new Parliament Building.

The Diplomatic Village features wide, freshly surfaced roads that meander through the estate, with underground drainage systems and manicured verges, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the area. The villas themselves showcase expansive glass panes and modern finishes, highlighting architectural excellence and a commitment to creating a refined urban space.

Experts in urban planning have lauded the Diplomatic Village as a symbol of renewal and forward-thinking leadership, exemplifying a vision for a more organised and sustainable urban landscape for Zimbabwe's future.

Speaking at the site visit, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe emphasized that the completion of these villas is a testament to the progress being made towards Vision 2030, which envisions modern, sustainable, and affordable infrastructure and housing for all Zimbabweans.

"Vision 2030 speaks to the provision of modern, sustainable, and affordable infrastructure and housing for all," Minister Garwe said, reinforcing the Government's commitment to achieving this goal. He also cited the reconstruction of the Mbare Traders Market as another example of the Government's dedication to urban transformation.

Special Presidential Investment Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara highlighted the completion of the villas as a clear sign of real progress, noting that they reflect the President's dedication to national development.

"The President is walking the talk on national development. These tangible developments reflect a strong commitment to uplifting communities," Dr Tungwarara said.

While Deputy Chief Secretary Engineer Amos Marawa is currently out of the country, an official statement conveyed his confidence in the project, expressing that the progress at Mt Hampden demonstrates the commitment of President Mnangagwa's administration to delivering quality developments.

"This is a clear sign that we are serious about creating a world-class diplomatic and Government centre," the statement read.

The villas were constructed using pre-stressed concrete slabs manufactured in Switzerland, ensuring superior quality control. The Swiss construction company, Mabetex Group, was contracted to lay the precast walls, while local company Bitumen World handled the foundations and roads. Mabetex, known for large-scale construction and urban development projects, has contributed significantly to the overall quality of this initiative, reinforcing the vision for a modern and thriving Zimbabwe.

As construction continues on subsequent phases of the Diplomatic Village, these first eight villas offer a promising preview of the country's urban future-refined, organised, and full of potential.