Mukaratirwa reported that the stands, which are still undergoing servicing, have already been sold out

By Trymore Tagwirei

Masvingo City Council has sold out over 600 residential stands in the new Rujeko D housing project at a record US$37.50 per square metre. The unprecedented figure far exceeds previous council rates, drastically driving up the cost of homeownership in the city.

Under the new rates, a standard 300-square-metre high density stand costs buyers US$11 250, making the council provided stands more expensive that the privately-developed low density stands in the neighbouring Clipsham Views extension suburb which averaged US$23 per square metre.

During a full council meeting, Ward 9 Councillor Richard Musekiwa questioned whether the local authority could introduce extended payment periods to make housing more accessible.

“Can we offer a payment plan over six months or a year, since we are the council and many residents cannot afford the current stand prices at Rujeko D? It is difficult for them to pay the entire amount upfront,” Musekiwa said.

He warned that the council risks failing to clear its housing backlog, as only wealthier residents—many of whom already own homes—can afford the high rates.

“We are repeating past mistakes because only those with considerable resources benefit. It is not right; we must serve all residents,” he added.

In response, Town Clerk Edward Mukaratirwa stated that all stands, that are still being serviced, had already been bought, noting that the council screened applicants before finalizing payment terms.

“The stands are already completely sold out. We invited interested applicants for interviews, conducted assessments, and decided to sell to those who could afford upfront payment,” Mukaratirwa explained.

The council’s approach stands in contrast to its Master Plan adopted in June 2024. In the document, the city acknowledged a severe backlog in housing delivery and social infrastructure, pledging instead to build “high-rise family dwelling units across various parts of the city to accommodate at least 2 000 families.”