Hon. Ropafadzo Makumire, a member of the Portfolio Committee on Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, was part of a Parliamentary team that this week conducted an oversight visit to Lupane in Matabeleland North Province to assess progress in implementing the Government’s Human Settlements Policy, with particular focus on the regularisation and sanitisation of dysfunctional settlements.

The visit revealed deep infrastructure gaps in Lupane Local Board.

According to Hon. Makumire on social media, more than 5,000 properties effectively the entire town are reportedly without sewer reticulation.

“These realities remind us that the journey towards an upper-middle-income economy is not measured by aspirations and slogans, but by the quality of infrastructure and services available to our citizens,” he said.

“It is difficult to claim meaningful progress when an entire local authority still relies predominantly on septic tanks and soak-away systems instead of proper sewer reticulation.”

He noted that the situation highlights the urgent need to accelerate the provision of essential infrastructure and services before any further expansion of the town.

The Committee also inspected the Matabeleland North Government Complex. While two office blocks are complete and ready for occupation, ten more remain on paper.

Hon. Makumire said that while some working space is already in place, the relocation of government ministries and departments should be matched with adequate staff housing to ensure it is sustainable.

Following the assessments, the Committee will compile a comprehensive report from its findings, which will be tabled and debated in Parliament.

“It is through this oversight process that Parliament holds the Executive accountable and makes evidence-based recommendations to improve service delivery and the development of sustainable human settlements across Zimbabwe,” Hon. Makumire said.