By Staff Correspondent
Social advocate Robert Jambaya has called for the historic Matapi Flats in Mbare, Harare, to be officially renamed “The Collins Flats.” According to Jambaya, the proposed name change would serve as a tribute to Engineer Collins Mnangagwa, a member of the First Family, for spearheading recent rehabilitation and refurbishment efforts at the residential complex.
Speaking on the transformation of the high-density apartment blocks, Jambaya praised the renovation project led by Engineer Mnangagwa and his team, contrasting the current state of the infrastructure with its previous condition.
”The place was once a trash, but today it has a new look following the massive renovations championed by Engineer Colins Mnangagwa and his team,” Jambaya stated. “Because of the new look, I am declaring the Flats to be renamed ‘The Colins Flats.’ This is a way of showing appreciation to the great deeds done by our own youth.”
Jambaya noted that the upgrades have shifted the social and economic atmosphere within the Mbare community. He observed that the improved environment has attracted affluent visitors—locally referred to as mbingas—driving high-end vehicles such as Ford Raptors, Mercedes-Benzes, and Toyota GD6s. Additionally, he pointed out that residents are now utilizing the refurbished grounds to host upscale social events, including traditional lobola (bride price) ceremonies.
”For me, Colins is a hero; he should be applauded for what he did to Mbare. Mbare has a new look,” Jambaya added, urging Engineer Mnangagwa to replicate similar urban renewal initiatives across other parts of the capital.
The social advocate also directed criticism toward Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, questioning the municipal leadership’s role in urban maintenance and development. Jambaya expressed disappointment following a recent visit by the Mayor to the renovated site, alleging that the local authority had failed to draw lessons from the project’s execution.
Matapi Flats, constructed during the colonial era to house single male laborers, have long faced challenges related to overcrowding, aging infrastructure, and strained municipal services. While the recent renovations have been welcomed by local residents as a significant improvement to living conditions in Mbare, formal renaming of municipal properties in Harare typically falls under the jurisdiction of the City of Harare council and relevant local government ministries, subject to established public consultation and statutory procedures.
