Chitungwiza Municipality has terminated its controversial agreement with Wistmer Investments, led by Prophet Walter Magaya, to fund its master plan. The council has opted to finance the process independently, citing unfulfilled commitments from the donor.

The decision follows years of financial strain within the council, which had prompted Wistmer to extend assistance. However, the move sparked division among councilors, officials, and residents, causing delays in the development of the blueprint.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa had mandated all 92 local authorities to submit their master plans by the end of June to curb unplanned settlements. In response, Chitungwiza convened a special council meeting on Saturday to annul the Wistmer deal.

The council has decided to re-engage the original contractor at a reduced cost of $180,000, significantly lower than the previously inflated figure of $600,000. There are indications that a company associated with Zanu-PF politburo member Daniel Mckenzie Ncube may take the lead in crafting the master plan.

Chitungwiza Municipality spokesperson Tafadzwa Kachiko confirmed the council’s decision and noted their collaboration with Ncube Burrow (Pvt) Ltd. Despite concerted efforts, the council is unlikely to meet the June deadline and has applied for an extension until August, pledging to submit progress reports to the government.