Dzivarasekwa: A Harare Suburb with a Complex History

Dzivarasekwa is a high-density suburb located in the western part of Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe. It's a place with a rich and multifaceted history, encompassing both established neighbourhoods and informal settlements.

Established Suburb:

• Developed with a "site and services" approach, meaning the government allocated plots with basic infrastructure like water and sanitation.
• Divided into sections called Dzivarasekwa 1, 2, 3, and 4 and Extension
• Represents an electoral constituency.

Densification and Informal Settlements:

• Dzivarasekwa Extension, located on the outskirts, is an informal settlement.
• Established in 1993, the neighbourhood currently has hundreds of houses for families despite limited resources.
• Residents built semi-permanent structures and rely on communal facilities like boreholes for water.

The Future of Dzivarasekwa:

• The Zimbabwean government has acknowledged the need for improvement.
• A 2021 plan involves constructing high-density flats to address overcrowding in Dzivarasekwa Extension, potentially improving living conditions.
• Dzivarasekwa's story reflects the ongoing challenges and efforts in urban planning within Zimbabwe.

Dzivarasekwa: Established Community, Developing Needs

Property Market:

Types of Properties: Houses (core and extended), vacant stands

Price Range: Prices can vary depending on factors like size, condition, and location. Here's a rough estimate:

• Core houses (basic structure): $7,000 - $20,000 USD
• Extended houses (additional rooms): $20,000 - $50,000 USD
• Vacant stands: Prices can vary based on size and serviced vs. unserviced

Schools:

• Dzivarasekwa boasts several government primary and secondary schools spread across the different sections.
• Some notable schools include Dzivarasekwa 1 Primary School, Dzivarasekwa 2 High School, and Chipembere Primary School.

Shopping

Numerous shopping centres cater to daily needs, with shops selling groceries, clothing, and household items.

• The popular Dzivarasekwa Market offers fresh produce and local goods.
• Bolo Shopping Centre, located in the heart of Dzivarasekwa, is a bustling hub of commerce and activity. This popular shopping destination offers a diverse range of products and services, from fresh produce to electronics, clothing, and more. With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly vendors, Bolo Shopping Centre is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir, a quick bite to eat, or simply a place to socialise, Bolo Shopping Centre has something for everyone. Its convenient location and ample parking make it an ideal stop for those exploring the area or seeking a fun and lively shopping experience.
• Dzivarasekwa 2 Shopping Centre is a popular shopping destination in the Dzivarasekwa suburb of Harare, Zimbabwe. The shopping centre offers a variety of stores and services, including supermarkets, butcheries, bakeries, pharmacies, and more. It is a convenient and bustling hub of activity, serving the local community and surrounding areas. With its wide range of products and services, Dzivarasekwa 2 Shopping Centre is a one-stop shop for all your daily needs.

Recreation 

Pamatombo Village Recreational Centre is a popular destination for leisure and entertainment in Harare, Zimbabwe. 

• The centre offers a range of activities and facilities, including:
• Shopping centre with various stores and services
• Restaurant and bar serving local and international cuisine
• Conference and event facilities
• Sports facilities, such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, and bowling green
• Children's playground and arcade
• Accommodation options, including lodges and camping sites

Pamatombo Village Recreational Centre is a great place to relax, socialise, and have fun with family and friends. Its convenient location and wide range of activities make it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists

Open spaces within the suburb serve as recreational areas for residents.

• Local sports teams often utilise these spaces for games.
• Entertainment options might be limited, so residents might venture to other areas of Harare for cinemas, restaurants, etc.

The NBS Housing Scheme in Dzivarasekwa

The National Building Society (NBS) of Zimbabwe undertook a housing development project in Dzivarasekwa. Here's a breakdown of what we know:

Project Details:

• Location: Western side of Harare, roughly 17 km from the CBD.
• Property Type: Stand-alone houses in a high-density area.
• Number of Units: 500 units with varying models (1, 2, 3, 4, and 7 rooms).
• Stand Size: Averages around 240 square metres.
• Services: The plan included municipal water, sewer, tarred roads, and electricity.

Investment Opportunities in Dzivarasekwa

1. Real Estate: Investing in rental properties, such as apartments or houses, to cater to the demand for housing in the area.

2. Retail and Commercial Property: Open a shop, supermarket, or office space to serve the local community and nearby businesses.