The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has taken over the financing of the Sakubva urban renewal project, providing US$6 million in instalments.
An investor who had expressed interest in 2019 had failed to provide finances for the initiative which is aimed at modernising Sakubva and turning Mutare into a Smart City in line with the Government’s Vision 2030.
Local Government and Public Works Minister July Moyo, who oversees urban development, and Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Professor Paul Mavima, who oversees NSSA, yesterday witnessed the signing of the deal between NSSA and Mutare City Council.
Minister Moyo said the concerned parties met on Monday to iron out issues with regards to NSSA financing a number of projects in Mutare for urban renewal. The Herald quotes Moyo as saying:
We are happy that NSSA is willing to co-operate with Mutare. Our people are living in urban areas built in the colonial era without proper livelihoods.
There is no proper accommodation for families with some sharing facilities. We are glad that as Government we assisted in facilitating the deal as Mutare and NSSA found each other.
Sakubva, Mutare’s oldest suburb, was established around 1925 and there has been a little upgrade since then. The suburb was considered sub-standard even in the 1970s. Most residents in the area live in crowded and unhygienic conditions.
NSSA acting general manager Mr Charles Shava said as a company they were excited to be availing US$6 million since the project dovetails with the organisation’s thrust of being a world-class provider of social security. He said:
This is an important project for us. The money will be disbursed in tranches as the project is being implemented in phases.
During the first phase, NSSA will invest at least US$600 000 while the city will chip in with US$400 000.
The grand plan for the project will see the construction of high-rise flats, revamping of the Sakubva flea market, the Sakubva long-distance bus terminus, Sakubva Stadium, Sakubva Beit Hall and Sakubva vegetable market.