Published: 1 hour ago

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has injected US$1 million into the long-awaited Sakubva Industrial Hub, signalling renewed momentum for the flagship urban renewal project following delays linked to contractor disputes.

The US$6 million development, based in Mutare, has entered a new phase after authorities retendered the main construction works at Murahwa People's Green Market, with bids expected by May 8.

Originally launched in December 2019 by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the Sakubva Urban Renewal Project is designed to modernise the ageing high-density suburb and transform Mutare into a smart city aligned with Vision 2030.

The project is being implemented through a partnership between the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works Zimbabwe, Mutare City Council and NSSA under a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) known as the Sakubva Industrial Hub.

NSSA general manager Charles Shava confirmed the investment this week, noting that the funds have been directed towards preparatory works, including setting up a temporary relocation site for traders, procurement of vehicles, ICT equipment and engagement of consultants.

"So far about US$1 million has been injected into the project for initial works to get it running," said Dr Shava, adding that strict procurement procedures are being followed to ensure transparency and value for money.

He emphasised that the tendering process is being conducted through the public procurement framework, with submissions handled electronically via the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) platform.

Dr Shava said the SPV model would ensure both commercial returns and social impact, with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) expected to benefit from improved infrastructure and formalisation.

"The SPV shall ensure that investors earn a commercial return through competitive rentals while also achieving social impact through prioritising relocated SMEs," he said.

However, progress on the project continues to face hurdles. The initial contractor was dismissed, forcing authorities to restart the tendering process, while trader relocation plans have stalled due to incomplete infrastructure at the temporary site.

Sakubva Green Market chairman Earnest Muchakuya said traders had raised concerns over security, road conditions, sanitation and electricity at the relocation site.

"We had demands such as a security fence, proper roads and adequate sanitation facilities before we could move," he said, adding that the relocation deadline had been pushed back indefinitely.

Traders were initially expected to move to a temporary site near Quest Motors to pave way for demolition and construction works, but the delay has left hundreds operating from the ageing market under uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the project also saw a leadership change this week after Sakubva Industrial Hub board chairman Kenneth Maregere resigned, citing work commitments.

Site engineer Rachel Nyasha Magoshongwe confirmed the retendering process, saying authorities are working within procurement regulations after the previous tender was cancelled on administrative grounds.

She indicated that construction is expected to take about eight months once a contractor is appointed.

Despite the setbacks, authorities say the project remains central to Zimbabwe's urban renewal agenda, with expectations that it will boost economic activity, formalise SMEs and improve infrastructure in one of Mutare's busiest commercial hubs.
- Manica Post

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