RESIDENTS of Mbare flats in Harare have raised their fury against Zanu PF Councillor Simbarashe Chanachimwe, whom they accuse of neglecting their plight to renovate the hostels, which are in a state of deterioration.

Matapi and Matererini hostels are in a state of dilapidation. Having been constructed during the colonial era, they have poor sanitation, making life extremely challenging for the inhabitants.

Blocked toilets are a common issue, with only one functioning toilet serving an entire block. This single toilet often has water, but it is far from sufficient for the needs of the many families living there.

The lack of water in most of the toilets exacerbates the situation, causing significant distress.

More than 20 people share the single functioning toilet, which they take turns to use, with some being forced to bathe in their rooms.

?The biggest problem that we are facing in Mbare is sewage. The pipes are run down,? said Memory Alfanet in an interview with NewZimbabwe.com.

?We do not have safe drinking water. Our councillor has done nothing for us. I am actually afraid of talking to him. To think that he is the same councillor that we used to interact with surprises us.?

?He is aware of these challenges. He used to live in these flats. When he made money, he left the hostels. He says nothing; he only passes through,? she added.

In 2024, the High Court ordered the City of Harare to renovate the flats to meet decent living standards. However, the council is yet to abide by the order.

Last year, the city fathers appealed the judgement—a sign viewed by residents as having no appetite to upgrade the hostels and restore decency.

Mbare flats residents accuse Chanachimwe, who is known as Dhama, of turning a blind eye to their struggles.

?The situation has been ongoing for a very long time. Some houses do not have electricity. The councillor has been useless. We are now appealing to the government to assist us,? said another Mbare resident, Lucky Chibarinya.

Efforts to solicit a comment from Chanachimwe were in vain, as he did not respond to NewZimbabwe.com?s requests by the time of publishing.

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