mbulelo smpofu
Judith Phiri, Business Reporter
THE Hwange Local Board (HLB) is in the process of registering artisans who operate within its jurisdiction, an initiative aimed at addressing a significant decline in the quality of building works, which has negatively impacted the local infrastructure.
The registration encompasses a variety of professionals, including builders, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, draughtsmen, architects, as well as engineers and companies planning to undertake projects in Hwange.
In a statement, the acting Town Secretary, Mr Paulos Mabhureni, said they had observed that some artisans were delivering sub-standard houses and commercial buildings.
“This has prompted us to raise the bar by ensuring that only qualified and experienced artisans are engaged in construction works. Additionally, we faced the challenge of ‘fly-by-night’ artisans, who would perform poor-quality work and then disappear, leaving property owners with unfinished or poorly constructed buildings,” he said.
He said the primary beneficiaries of this initiative were the property owners, who will ultimately receive high-quality, upmarket structures.
Mr Mabhureni said HLB as the planning authority, will also benefit by having more sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing buildings within its jurisdiction.
“Registered artisans will gain access to a fairer market and will also benefit from capacity-building opportunities to improve their skills and expertise. To enhance the competence of our artisans, we will facilitate trade testing through the Zimbabwe Manpower Development Fund,” he added.
“This initiative allows artisans to acquire practical knowledge and skills, even without undergoing formal skills development programmes. We view the registration of artisans as an important step in improving the quality of service, infrastructure and aesthetics in our area, while also increasing the value of properties within our jurisdiction.”
He said the registration window was open year-round for any artisan wishing to work in our area, while registration was a simple process and they encourage all interested parties to sign up.
Mr Mabhureni said they will continue to keep the public informed about any developments through their Public Relations office and awareness campaigns have already begun across various media platforms as they strive to raise public awareness.
“We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of construction and look forward to the positive impact this registration process will have on our community.”
In a notice to property owners, he said HLB has ceased inspecting works carried on properties by unregistered artisans with effect from 1 December 2024.
Mr Mabhureni said the exercise to register all artisans led to the compilation of Council’s official database.
He added: “Any works carried out by unregistered artisans, architects, engineers and companies (contractors) will be deemed illegal and will attract a penalty. The penalty will be imposed on both the property owner and the individual or company carrying out the works.”
To avoid unnecessary costs and complications, Mr Mabhureni called on residents and stakeholders to verify the registration of any artisan before allowing them to begin any work.
