GWANDA is set to have its first gated community for the first time in 125 years following the unveiling of residential stands at Intaba Estates recently.
The estate, located just five kilometres from Gwanda town, is set against the backdrop of Gwanda’s rich historical heritage, including Stone Age artefacts found in the Gwalingemba Hills.
The initiative is spearheaded by Charlesdale Luxury Properties.
Charlesdale Luxury Properties chairperson, Levine Denecker, said the initiative was a dream of his father, Charles Denecker, to bring modern, luxurious living to the region.
“My father has had the provision of luxurious accommodation in incubation for a very long time and has steadfastly as well as lawfully bought land over the years, cherishing the desire to one day play his part in alleviating the shortage of accommodation, first in Gwanda, before rolling out similar projects to the rest of Matabeleland Province and the country,” Denecker said.
“For the first time in Gwanda’s 125 years of existence, a gated community is now not only a possibility, but a reality beckoning you to embrace it with both hands.”
Denecker said the property developer was inspired by world-class developments like Sandton in South Africa and Borrowdale Brooke in Harare.
He said modern infrastructure including a shopping mall, and other facilities are under development at the Estate.
- Record breaker Mpofu revisits difficult upbringing
- ED speaks on prices, exchange rate
- Mapeza looks forward to Bosso challenge
- Illegal gold rush fuels violent crimes
Keep Reading
“Access to decent accommodation is every man, woman, and child’s dream,” Denecker said.
“Charlesdale Luxury Properties is offering you the first opportunity to be pioneers in modern luxurious living.”
Matabeleland South minister of State, Albert Nguluvhe, hailed the development as a transformative milestone for the region.
“This initiative by Charlesdale Luxury Properties is not just about providing shelter; it is a historic development by one of Gwanda’s own sons, Mr. Charles Denecker,” he said.
“Indeed, this is a case of charity beginning at home.”
He emphasised the strategic importance of Gwanda, describing it as “the capital and commercial hub of Matabeleland South Province, with tremendous potential for economic transformation and growth.”
He said the town’s mining activities, safari operations, and farming industries make it a prime destination for investment.
“Gwanda, despite being founded in 1900, has taken 125 years to have its first gated residential community,” Nguluvhe said.
“This development closes a gap that has long been felt in the province and brings modern, luxurious homes with world-class amenities to our people.”
Nguluvhe also stressed the importance of shelter as a basic human right, aligning the project with Zimbabwe’s broader housing strategy.
Town clerk, Priscilla Nkala, said the initiative reshapes Gwanda’s future.
“Intaba Estate is a testament to our town’s growth and will contribute immensely to our journey towards becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030,” Nkala said.
“This is not just a construction project, it is a symbol of progress.
“It will provide safe and secure homes for families and uplift the entire community.”
“From the planning stages to today, this has been a joint effort between the developer, the local authority, and other stakeholders such as the Department of Physical Planning and the Ministry of Local Government.”
Nkala said the initiative would also help reduce Gwanda’s housing backlog.
“Through this project, we will contribute to minimum service delivery standards as required by the Presidential Call to Action blueprint, covering essential services such as water, roads, street lighting, public health, environmental management, and housing,” she said.
“This project is not just about building houses—it’s about creating spaces that enhance the aesthetic and character of our neighbourhood, complementing existing architectural styles while introducing modern designs that will revitalise the area.”
