Families have found themselves in the difficult position of having to dismantle unauthorized home extensions due to conflicts arising from upcoming housing developments, according to Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa. The minister highlighted that tenants, particularly in the western regions, have been requested to remove such extensions that disrupt planned projects.
Minister Nalumisa explained that disputes often emerge when homes are constructed too closely together, leading residents to undertake extensions without the necessary approvals, which can compromise property boundaries and access routes. “These challenges arise because we are dealing with people and their homes,” he remarked, denoting the human aspect of these housing issues.
In response to concerns about preventing future conflicts, Nalumisa announced that the government is adopting a more meticulous and structured approach at the inception of each housing project. “We consult from the beginning,” he stated, noting that the ministry conducts socio-economic surveys to understand the dynamics of the local population and their circumstances.
Throughout the development process, the minister emphasized that residents are prohibited from constructing new structures or expanding existing homes. “At this stage, people must wait until the project is completed,” Nalumisa instructed, assuring that once boundaries are set, residents will have a clear understanding of where they can build extensions legally.
He further warned that building without proper approval constitutes a violation of the law, underscoring the importance of following regulations in housing development. Through these measures, the government aims to harmoniously balance the needs of current residents with the demands of new housing projects, fostering a sustainable community development.