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By Linda Masarira.

The Labour Economists and Afrikan Democrats (LEAD) commends the High Court of Zimbabwe for its long-overdue and decisive judgment ordering the City of Harare (CoH) to refurbish and make the hostels and flats in Mbare safe and habitable. This ruling comes as a victory for human dignity, public health, and residents’ constitutional right to a safe and healthy living environment.

We applaud Justice Nyaradzo Munangati-Manongwa’s directive for the immediate restoration of essential services, including water and sewer systems, sanitation, refuse collection, and the installation of fire safety equipment in Mbare’s Matapi, Matererini, Nenyere, Magaba, and Shawasha hostels. The court’s recognition of the deplorable conditions in which residents have been forced to live is a significant step toward accountability and justice.

LEAD calls upon the City of Harare, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, and all relevant government institutions to implement the court’s orders without delay. We emphasize the importance of providing temporary shelters and basic services to affected residents during the refurbishment process, including access to water, sanitation, electricity, and chemical toilets.

Additionally, we urge the Minister of Health and Child Care to act decisively under the Public Health Act to mitigate potential disease outbreaks and protect public health. We also call on the Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife to enforce environmental protections around the affected areas.

To ensure the judgment’s implementation, we propose the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework that includes representatives from residents, civil society organizations, and independent auditors. Furthermore, punitive measures must be enforced against any party that fails to comply with the court’s directives within the set timelines. Neglect of this judgment should not be tolerated, as it further compromises the dignity and safety of vulnerable Zimbabweans.

LEAD remains steadfast in advocating for improved living conditions, accountability, and good governance in Zimbabwe. We will continue to monitor this matter closely and hold all stakeholders accountable to ensure that justice and the rule of law prevail.

Linda Tsungirirai Masarira
President, Labour Economists and Afrikan Democrats

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