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Whinsley Masara, Chronicle Reporter
THE Minister of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, Cde Saviour Kasukuwere, has identified 318 hectares of land for the construction of between 10,000 and 20,000 high density residential stands for youths in Bulawayo.

Cde Kasukuwere on Thursday visited Umvutsha Farm in Greater Bulawayo where houses will be constructed following a pledge he made in the city three weeks ago.

“A few weeks ago, I announced that my ministry would be rolling out the first 300 hectares this year with construction of housing units expected to commence by year end. Today, we present 318 hectares of the identified site as well as the plan which has been put in place for the construction of the first phase of the township.

“I made the statement, engaged my Permanent Secretary Engineer George Mlilo, Bulawayo’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Nomthandazo Eunice Moyo and the Bulawayo City Council to identify land. Today we’re touring the site and are moving to the next stage,” said the Minister.

He said as soon as work starts, another 600 hectares would be availed for further development.

“As you can see from the plan, we’ve planned for residential stands, four secondary schools, seven primary schools, four pre-schools, three flats, a recreational site, clinics, churches and commercial sites.

“I promise you that this land will be serviced by end of this year. This will be a first in Zimbabwe as it will be the first ever Youth Township. All these stands will be given to youths, no one else,” said Minister Kasukuwere.

Minister Moyo said the project was a great opportunity for youths as many would benefit.

“Offices have been availed in the city centre for this project which will be directly co-ordinated from Bulawayo. Minister Kasukuwere has presented us with a plan which is per his promise. We’ve identified the land and we’re moving to the next step,” she said.

Also present at the land identification ceremony was the Minister of State in Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko’s office, Tabetha Kanengoni Malinga, Urban Development Corporation General Manager Bright Mudzova and Urban Development Corporation board member, Absalom Sikhosana among others.