Tiyani Hahlani
Masvingo’s business community has received a major investment boost with the launch of the Mutirikwi Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), a platform that aims to unlock local wealth through structured and collective investment in real estate.
As the first initiative of its kind in the province, the trust enables individuals and enterprises to pool resources and fund large-scale commercial and residential property developments across Masvingo.
Saul Chin’anga, the chairperson, described the REIT as a vehicle for wealth creation accessible to both local and international investors.
“REIT is a new model for wealth creation, allowing individuals to jointly invest and build substantial, sustainable infrastructure in the province. Previously, high capital requirements sidelined many from real estate opportunities.
“With a minimum investment of US$100, the Mutirikwi REIT offers an inclusive tool for businesses of all sizes—from small traders to large enterprises—to earn dividends while shaping the city’s future,” said Chin’anga.
Director of Economic Affairs in the office of the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Clever Chingwara who officiated the launch on behalf of minister Ezra Chadzamira, said the province lags behind in terms of infrastructure development and this presented a golden opportunity for investments.
“Masvingo faces a significant infrastructure deficit, with over 30 000 people on housing waiting lists and rising demand for business space.
“REIT will help address this shortage, particularly as the city implements its new urban expansion plan beyond the Mucheke River. This plan includes a new city centre, which the trust will anchor with developmental capital raised from Masvingo residents,” said Chingwara.
The model is not new to Zimbabwe; since REIT-enabling legislation took full effect in 2020, similar structures have supported projects like Mazowe Walk and Eagle Heights in Victoria Falls, where investors are already receiving returns.
Sharon Timbe, deputy director in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, underscored the trust’s alignment with national goals.
“This is more than a financial instrument—it’s a model that dovetails with National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030.
“Unlocking transformative real estate programs supports sustainable urbanization, job creation, and inclusive growth. It also provides international and local investors a stable-return vehicle to participate in Masvingo’s development, fostering shared growth, decentralization, and inclusive capital formation,” said Timbe.
Local business leaders expressed optimism that REIT would stimulate cooperatives and joint ventures among small businesses seeking to expand in the city’s fast-growing property sector.
