Property developer Zimre Property Investments (ZPI) has launched a US$1 million residential project in Selbourne Park, Bulawayo, featuring 56 fully serviced stands - a development hailed as a model example of successful public-private partnership in infrastructure and housing delivery.
The gated community project includes a comprehensive road network, sewer, water, and drainage systems, offering a ready-to-build environment for prospective homeowners.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart, whose speech was delivered by Councillor Melisa Mabeza, said the project underscored the City of Bulawayo's commitment to providing inclusive housing for all residents.
"Today, we are here to witness the commissioning of another project in a low-density suburb, showing our commitment to inclusive development, leaving no community behind," said Cllr Coltart.
"As a city, we value partnerships that drive sustainable urban development, as has been witnessed here. Projects like this demonstrate what can be achieved when the private sector, local authorities, and communities work together for a shared purpose - to build Bulawayo for all."
The mayor added that the development aligns with the council's housing policy, which requires developers to provide essential infrastructure before constructing buildings. He noted that such collaborations were vital in addressing Bulawayo's housing backlog of about 144,000 applicants.
Cllr Coltart also highlighted the project's contribution to the government's Vision 2030 target of delivering 1.2 million housing units nationwide by 2030.
"By delivering this project, you are playing your part in the delivery of housing units that will help Zimbabwe attain upper-middle-income status by 2030," he said.
Zimre Holdings Limited chairman, Mr Desmond Matete, said the project involved significant infrastructure works, including a 1.4-kilometre road and stormwater network, 1.1 kilometres of water reticulation, and a 120-metre borehole to boost water supply.
He noted that housing projects like this one have a ripple effect across various industries - from construction and transport to retail and manufacturing.
"Housing development stimulates aggregate demand and engages multiple industries. From brickmakers and transporters to furniture retailers and grocery suppliers - everyone benefits," said Mr Matete.
He added that Zimre Properties was also contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its emphasis on clean water, infrastructure development, and responsible partnerships.
Bulawayo Central Member of Parliament, Mr Surrender Kapoikilu, commended the project but urged transparency in the allocation process.
"As we celebrate this progress, we must speak honestly and protect the interests of our people.
This development must model transparency, equitable access, and genuine affordability - because this is how we build not just houses, but trust," he said.
Zimre Holdings chief executive officer, Mr Stanley Kudenga, said the Selbourne Park development was part of the company's broader national housing expansion strategy.
"We're working on multiple projects across the country and are proud of the partnership we have with the Bulawayo City Council. It's through such collaborations that we can make meaningful, lasting contributions to local communities," said Mr Kudenga.
The Selbourne Park project marks another step in Zimre's push to modernise urban housing and promote sustainable development, reinforcing Bulawayo's vision to become a hub for innovation, investment, and inclusive growth.
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