By Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
BULAWAYO – The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has announced it will commence evictions of illegal tenants from the council-owned Burombo Flats in Mzilikazi, citing a severe deterioration in living conditions and a surge in violent crime.
The estate has been without electricity since September 2023, a situation officials say has created a haven for criminal activity amidst overcrowding and persistent sewer overflows from the nearby Thorngrove facility.
Deputy Mayor of Bulawayo, Edwin Ndlovu, stated that the council authorised the move after receiving what he termed “disturbing reports” from the area.
“We have received reports of rape cases, theft and other criminal activities happening at Burombo Flats. The place has become unsafe, and the council cannot allow this to continue,” Ndlovu said.
“I have given permission to our housing officials to start evacuating all people who are not rightful tenants.”
He detailed the extent of the problem, highlighting severe overcrowding and illegal subletting.
“We have people staying 15 in one room, some living in storerooms meant for wheelbarrows, and others renting out rooms illegally. This is unacceptable, and as council, we have to restore order at Burombo.”
Housing officer Mpumelelo Matwasa indicated that the verification and eviction process is expected to take up to three months.
“People will be called individually to confirm who is a legal tenant and who is not. After that process, we will remove those who are not supposed to be there,” he explained.
Residents describe an unbearable living situation. One tenant, Jairos Maropa, said,
“Every day we hear of people being robbed. Girls are no longer safe because of rapists hiding in the corridors. There is no electricity, so criminals take advantage of the darkness. Life at Burombo has become dangerous.”
The BCC has stated it will work with law enforcement agencies to ensure the evictions are conducted safely and orderly.
In a related development: Rusape Town Council to Cancel Leases Over Rental Arrears
RUSAPE – In a separate council resolution, the Rusape Town Council has announced it will cancel lease agreements with tenants who fail to clear their rental arrears by 2026.
The decision was made during a full council meeting, with councillors emphasising the need for payment to enable service delivery. Council chairperson Lovemore Chifomboti stated,
“If tenants are not willing to pay their rentals, council will cancel their lease agreements and rent out the properties to those who are willing to pay. It is ironic that tenants complain about lack of services when they are not paying their dues.”
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