Built in Dambudzo near Lundi Primary School on the outskirts of Zvishavane, the area has been designated as a “secluded area”, meaning that access and freedom of movement is now severely restricted. Locals say they have been warned against trespassing.
The mammoth construction project, which commenced in August last year and was competed in July, reportedly employed 80 Zanu (PF) members.
The house was built mainly by a Chinese company, though some work was subcontracted to the Zvishavane-based New Base construction company, an impeccable source revealed.
Two families living near the mansion were forced to relocate. The project also involves the construction of a tarred road and extensive landscaping work. Some locals consider the project a “blessing in disguise” as the road network is expected to dramatically improve.
Provincial Zanu (PF) officials have been roped in. “Last week we saw Mberengwa East Member of Parliament and Zanu (PF)’s senior official Makhosini Hlongwani, inspecting the road in the company of Jimmy Goddard, who owns a road and dam construction company,” said the source.
Apart from bricks, gravel and cement which have been sourced locally, sources say everything else at the property, particularly all the interior finishing and roofing materials, have been imported from China, while a high-powered water pump and a 25,000 litre tank were donated by Zvishavane-based Mimosa Mine.
Mnangagwa’s brother and local village headman, Jonah, confirmed that the mansion is owned by his brother Emmerson, and said an 8km stretch of road would be built from Muzvondiwa to Mabasa turn-off.
He would not be drawn into shedding more light on the project, and poured scorn on those who criticised the development. “There is employment. As a traditional leader, where opportunities arise, I make sure we employ especially young men in a non-partisan manner,” he said.
Several efforts to obtain comments from Mimosa regarding its involvement were fruitless.
Post published in: News