Environmental Reporter
COWDRAY PARK – Poised to become a standalone City in the coming years, Cowdray Park boasts a population of over 75,000 and more than 26,000 residential stands. However, the reality for 18 residents of the flood-prone Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle segments 11, 12, and 12B—an offshoot of Zimbabwe’s 2005 Operation Murambatsvina—is far from glamorous as they face uncertainty over their promised relocation.
At the beginning of the year, the Local Government pledged to relocate affected residents and install a proper drainage system to address persistent flooding. Yet, with the rainy season now over, little action has been taken by the Bulawayo City Council or the Ministry of Local Government.
No trenches have been dug, and frustration is mounting among residents who heard similar promises last year.
Residents Struggle with Flood Aftermath
“The water enters our homes to the point where we’ve had to dig near the door just to let it flow out. Our property and important documents have been destroyed. We had to lay them outside to dry, but they were already ruined,” said Sithembile Fuyane, one of the affected residents.
During the rainy season, stagnant water leaves residents in despair. Some have resorted to temporary measures like sandbagging to divert water away from their homes.
“We face major challenges when it rains. The flooding damages our property, and without a proper drainage system, we’re forced to improvise. We dug a trench ourselves to keep the water from entering our homes,” said Elisha Moyo.
Community Leaders Call for Collective Action
Community leaders have echoed residents’ concerns, urging collective action to mitigate the crisis.
“Until long-term solutions are implemented by authorities, our community remains unsafe, losing property every rainy season. I propose that affected residents dig a drainage trench to channel water away from our yards. Additionally, we should use the Ward 6 retention fund—reportedly $49,000—for drainage projects,” said community leader and human rights defender Nicholsa Ndema Ngwenya.
Ngwenya revealed that Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ) recently visited Mpompini to assess flood-related grievances.
“Many have lost property due to this recurring issue. It’s frustrating that the council claims financial constraints despite collecting rates for service delivery. Ward 6 received a substantial retention fund, yet nothing has changed. As a leader, I’ve been advocating for our rights and offering legal guidance,” Ngwenya added.
Flooding Exposes Poor Drainage Infrastructure
Heavy rains have caused widespread flooding in Cowdray Park, raising concerns over inadequate drainage and its long-term impact on property and health.
“The council plans to demolish some houses to improve water flow, but no action has been taken since 2012. Residents have been advised to raise their house foundations, dig trenches, and build protective walls. We’re collaborating with the Legal Resources Centre and TIZ to pressure the council while supporting each other,” said one resident.
Council Awaits Funding for Drainage Project
Ward Councillor Ashton Mhlanga confirmed that a drainage system would be implemented once funding is secured.
“Flooding requires proper drainage. Council approved a Title Deeds Program to service Cowdray Park, covering roads, drainage, and sewer systems. The Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe has offered a $30 million USD loan, but residents must first consent to the terms,” Mhlanga said.
He added that flood-damaged houses would be demolished, with owners compensated through alternative stands and construction funds. Affected properties include houses numbered 18666, 18667, 18668, 18712, 18853, 18852, 20143, 20144, 20145, 20113, 20074, 20060, 20061, 20062, 20063, 19837, 19807, 19005, 19006, and 19007.
For now, makeshift solutions like durawalls and soil heaps serve as drainage controls, leaving residents vulnerable until permanent measures are enacted.
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