Councillor Raises Alarm Over Growing Squatter Camps In Borrowdale
The growing number of squatter camps in Borrowdale has raised concern, with Ward 18 Councillor Rufaro Matsika calling for national intervention to tackle the situation.
Matsika says the issue has become too large for the ward and local authority to handle alone. She wants social security, welfare and social services authorities involved in finding longer-term solutions for families living in the informal settlements.
Borrowdale Squatter Camps Need Wider Intervention
Speaking to ZiFM Stereo News, Matsika said some families could be relocated to more suitable areas, while others who can return to rural communities could receive assistance to rebuild their livelihoods.
However, she stressed that moving people without addressing their ability to earn an income could leave them vulnerable to returning to informal settlements.
Matsika said:
“Squatter camps in our ward in Borrowdale now need attention not at ward level but maybe at national level.”
The proposed approach would therefore combine relocation with social and livelihood support.
Councillor Calls For Borrowdale Residents To Get Involved
Matsika also appealed to Borrowdale residents to take a more active role in addressing challenges affecting their communities.
She urged residents not to restrict their involvement to discussions on social media.
“Not to just be keyboard warriors but also be participating residents,” she said.
The councillor’s comments highlight the need for a coordinated response that considers both accommodation and livelihoods. The proposed national involvement could determine how authorities respond to the growing informal settlements.
The post Borrowdale Squatter Camps Raise Alarm As Councillor Pleads For National Intervention appeared first on iHarare News.
