Neighborhood Alert: Mt. Hampden Guide: Update on Luxury Villas

Mt Hampden is 23 kilometres away from Harare and  this burgeoning district offers a captivating blend of established charm and progressive development.The various construction projects going on in the area promises a vibrant community that will offer a glimpse into the future of Zimbabwe's capital city.

Property Prices:

The average prices for Houses in Hampden in the new Zim Cyber City project  is US$600 000.Land averages $26 per square metre and the average land price in 2023 was US$500 000 up from an average US$31 000 in 2019.The average property price increase has mainly been caused by the construction of the new parliament and the promulgation by by the Zimbabwean government of Mt Hampden being the proposed new capital city of Zimbabwe.

Special Economic Zone Project : Zim Cyber City

Zim Cyber City is a state-of-the-art, mixed-use development project that is currently under construction in Mount Hampden, New Harare. The project is expected to boost Zimbabwe's economic development and attract foreign investors and tourists with its duty-free mall and special tax concessions. 

The project consists of 650 housing units, including 230 villas and 420 apartments, as well as 17 apartment buildings, featuring a unique design and architecture. The project also features a duty free mall that offers a wide range of products and services at competitive prices, as well as special tax concessions that enable residents to import duty free vehicles and enjoy lower income tax rates and exemptions from certain fees and charges.

The project is designed to be environmentally friendly, using renewable energy sources and smart technologies to reduce its carbon footprint. The project is a visionary initiative that aims to transform Zimbabwe into a digital hub and a regional leader in innovation and development.

Mulk International was granted an exclusive licence to establish a blockchain and digital assets special economic zone in Zimbabwe. This is the first such large-scale investment by a UAE-based business house in Zimbabwe, which is set to strengthen bilateral relationships between the countries. Mulk International also owns and operates other businesses in Zimbabwe, such as Zim E-Health, Zim Afro, and Zimbabwe Global Investments.

Luxury Living Redefined

Residents of Zim Cyber City can indulge in opulent living in spacious 3-5 bedroom villas, expertly crafted to provide unparalleled comfort and sophistication. These lavish villas boast modern architecture, high-end interiors, and access to a range of recreational facilities, ensuring an unmatched living experience.

Amenities and Features:

• Modern architecture and high-end interiors
• Access to recreational facilities
• Connectivity : Easy Connection 
• High Tech : Blockchain & Cyber Oasis.
• Shopping Malls.
• Parks & Greenery.
• High-End Dining Spots & Lounges.
• Nightclubs & Shisha Bars.
• Online Sports Betting.
• Entertainment Zones.

The new city is expected to accommodate a group of 500 experts who will be coming to Zimbabwe to finalise the completion of the  Mt Hampden Luxury villas  for the upcoming  SADC Summit. What we know so far is 

• The villas are being built specifically to accommodate dignitaries attending the upcoming 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit in August 2024.
• A team of Swiss experts will be collaborating with local artisans to complete the construction by mid-July.
• Once the summit concludes, the future use of the villas remains unclear.

The opulent villas within Zim Cyber City showcase outstanding design and features, providing a distinctive and elite residential lifestyle. The availability of pricing information and adaptable payment plans ensures that acquiring a villa in Zim Cyber City is within reach for a diverse group of potential investors, offering a chance to partake in a lucrative real estate market. 

Possessing a property in Zim Cyber City brings with it perks such as the possibility of rental income, asset value growth, and the status of belonging to a forward-thinking and flourishing community. Making an early investment in Zim Cyber City offers the potential to reap rewards from future appreciation as the development advances and solidifies its position as a prime location for investors.

What this means for you:

• You may see increased construction activity in the area for the next few months.
• Traffic patterns might be affected near the construction site.
• There could be a boost to the local economy due to the project.

History of  Mt Hampden

A hunter by the name of Frederick Courtney Selous called it Mt Hampden after an English statesman John Hampden (1594-1643) who was reported as an excellent soldier  and reputable leader. 

• Mt. Hampden was initially chosen as the destination for the Pioneer Column, a group sent by the British South Africa Company in 1890.
• Change of Plans: Unfortunately, the lack of a reliable water source forced them to settle further south, at the present-day location of Harare.
• The Namesake: Hunter and explorer Frederick Courtney Selous bestowed the name "Mt. Hampden" after the English politician John Hampden, a prominent figure during the English Civil War.
• A Brush with Becoming the Capital: The idea of establishing the capital city in Mt. Hampden resurfaced in 2012. The limited space in Harare and the need for a modern city centre fueled this proposal.
• Parliamentary Seat: Despite not becoming the capital, Mt. Hampden holds significance as the current parliamentary seat of Zimbabwe.
• New Chapter with a New Parliament Building: Construction of a new Parliament building in Mt. Hampden commenced in 2018. This grand structure signifies a new chapter for the area, though its future development remains to be seen.

Mt. Hampden's history reflects the ever-evolving landscape of Zimbabwe. While it may not be the bustling capital, it holds a unique place in the nation's story.

Real Estate in Mt Hampden

In general the rental yields in Zimbabwe  range from 5% to 11%, depending on the type and location of the property. The cost of living is relatively low, with the average price per square metre of property in Harare being around $1,296 in the city centre and $273 in the outskirts.

Rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre average US$275 per month according to Seef Properties 

The upscale villas in Zim Cyper Property are priced at a minimum of US$500,000 each, which is nearly double the typical cost of real estate in the wealthy northern neighbourhoods of Harare. Additionally, certain units are set to be marketed for US$1.2 million. The interest in this project has primarily originated from individuals and businesses located within the nation.

According to CC Sales in an April 2024 report on average a 2 bed US$98 000-US$142 000 and a 3 bedroom cost between US$143 000 -US$183 000.

Schools in MT Hampden

• Rainbow Junior School

There isn't much information publicly available online about Rainbow Junior School. However, you can try contacting them directly through their phone number or email if they have one listed.

• Cornelius Hope Academy Primary School (CHAPS)

Cornelius Hope Academy Primary School (CHAPS) is a co-educational primary school located in Mt Hampden. Their aim is to provide a holistic and Christ-centred education for children from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade 7. They offer small classes, qualified teachers and a secure learning environment.

• North Park School

North Park School is a private primary school located in Mt. Hampden. They offer a vibrant and stimulating learning environment for children from ECD to Grade 7. Their curriculum is based on the Zimbabwean curriculum but incorporates a more holistic approach that includes life skills, creative arts, and physical education.

Restaurants in Mt Hampden:

Here are a few restaurants you can try in Mt Hampden:

Valley Cottage: This restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, including traditional Zimbabwean dishes, seafood, and pizza. They also have a lovely outdoor seating area.
Mt Hampden Food Country: This is a more casual spot that offers quick bites and takeaway options. They have a good selection of burgers, fries, and chicken.

Activities in Mt Hampden:

There aren't many businesses listed by the names you provided and they likely aren't relevant to activities in the area.

Mount Hampden Junction

The Confederation for Zimbabwe Industries (CFI) has an invested interest in Mt Hampden as they think it's a potential catalyst for growth.The emergence of new companies and industries in the area can cause a ripple effect on the economy as job creation,increased government revenue and improve living standard  are the gains of these developments.

MT Hampden is a scenic area in Zimbabwe, offering a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some activities to do in MT Hampden. It has an artificial dam that people can go and enjoy. Other  activities include:

1. Hiking and Trekking: Explore the beautiful trails, hills, and mountains, offering stunning views and scenic landscapes.
2. Birdwatching: MT Hampden is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 100 species of birds, including the rare and endangered ones.
3. Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the nearby dams and rivers, stocked with bass, trout, and other fish species.
4. Horse Riding: Take a guided horse ride through the rolling hills and countryside, offering a unique perspective.
5. Game Drives: Go on a guided game drive to spot wildlife, including antelopes, zebras, and giraffes.
6. Camping: Set up camp in the designated campsites and enjoy the peaceful surroundings and starry skies.
7. Picnicking: Find a scenic spot and enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
8. Photography: Capture the stunning scenery, wildlife, and sunsets.
9. Star Gazing: Take advantage of the clear skies and enjoy stargazing.
10. Relaxation: Simply unwind and relax in the peaceful surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Remember to follow safety guidelines, respect the environment, and enjoy responsible tourism.In a nutshell investing in MT Hampden is a good idea considering the latest developments that will make a top-notch neighbourhood .