Zimbabwe commemorates World Habitat Day

ZIMBABWE today marks this year’s World Habitat Day by auditing the success of the government policy aimed at providing residential stands to people who have been placed on housing waiting lists.

From Africa through Asia to Europe and the Americas, governments, civic bodies as well as NGOs are laying out elaborate plans to mark this year’s event whose theme is ‘Harmonious Cities’ to be celebrated today.

The United Nations has designated the first Monday in October each year as World Habitat Day. The idea is to reflect on the state of our towns and cities and the basic right to adequate shelter for all. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.

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In Zimbabwe the commemorations will be a chance to review Zimbabwe’s building standards with a view of aligning them to the needs and aspirations of Zimbabweans.

The Minister of Local Government, Public Works and Urban Development Dr Ignatius Chombo said government will meet key stakeholders including members of parliament, councillors, engineers, architects, housing co-operatives and quantity surveyors on Monday after the commemorations to discuss housing needs in Zimbabwe.

He added the assessment will proffer solutions to any loopholes that exist in the housing regulations and policies.

He said the meeting will also address the issue of whether Zimbabwe should pursue densification as a cheaper model to provide water, sewer, roads and electricity.

Chombo, Harare Mayor Mr Muchadeyi Masunda and Harare Metropolitan Governor and Resident Minister David Karimanzira will be among key speakers at the commemorations to be held at town house today.

According to the UN: “In an age where for the first time half of humanity is now living in towns and cities, the quest for adequate shelter for all along with basic services such as water, sanitation, electricity, decent health care, safe streets, etc., is more urgent than ever, especially in developing countries.”