The Chitungwiza Municipality launched its long-awaited Master Plan for 2025-2045, marking a significant step toward transforming the third-largest urban center in Zimbabwe into a sustainable, resilient, and independent city. Developed with technical support from the Development Governance Institute (DGI), the plan addresses the town’s historical challenges and outlines a roadmap for urban renewal, economic growth, and improved service delivery.

Historically considered a dormitory town for Harare, Chitungwiza has faced limited economic independence and inadequate infrastructure. The Master Plan aims to reimagine the town’s urban form by promoting strategic self-sufficiency, optimizing land use, and integrating commercial corridors and nodes. This vision is rooted in addressing the town’s longstanding challenges, including land management issues, water and sewer infrastructure deficiencies, and economic stagnation.

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The plan is organized around seven core goals: optimal land use, resilient urban development, economic diversification, infrastructure functionality, quality social services, safety and security, and municipal excellence. Key proposals include establishing an independent water treatment plant, expanding the town center, and developing new commercial hubs to attract investment. The plan also emphasizes environmental sustainability, with initiatives such as renewable energy adoption, ecological parks, and a tourism and heritage trail.

With a population projected to grow to over 570,000 by 2042, the Master Plan prioritizes critical infrastructure upgrades. Plans include modernizing water and sewer systems, building new healthcare facilities, and expanding educational institutions. The establishment of a University at Seke Teachers’ College and new polyclinics highlights the municipality’s commitment to social service excellence.

Successful implementation will rely on collaboration between the municipality, residents, provincial and national governments, and private sector partners. The plan also aims to secure funding through public-private partnerships, grants, and intergovernmental transfers.

This ambitious Master Plan represents a turning point for Chitungwiza, laying the groundwork for the town to evolve into a competitive, self-sufficient urban center by 2045.