WATCH LIVE as Gambakwe unveils the manifesto of a new political coalition, M31 Zimbabwe, promising a seismic shift in the country’s political landscape. Delivered in the style of a daily update, the proposals directly confront some of Zimbabwe’s most pressing issues, from housing and economic stagnation to governance and political reform. The ambitious plan is not just about winning an election; it’s a blueprint for a “new country” by 2028, with the current ruling party, Zanopf, and its leader, Nangaba, relegated to history.

A Bold Vision for Housing and Urban Development

The centerpiece of the M31 manifesto is an extraordinary promise: free housing for every Zimbabwean in urban areas. This is presented as a fundamental right and a direct solution to the country’s housing crisis. Gambakwe contrasts this with the historical failures of past housing initiatives, including those under Robert Mugabe, which he argues were too slow and politically compromised.

The M31 plan, instead, proposes a “big bang approach” to urban development. It involves the construction of new, planned cities in Harare, Bulawayo, Victoria Falls, Wangi, and a sprawling development corridor connecting Victoria Falls to Beitbridge. The manifesto also outlines specific provisions for different segments of society:

  • Military and Security Personnel: A dedicated “city for the military” is proposed between Binga and Victoria Falls, aiming to transition security forces from the barracks system to modern, individual housing.
  • Unemployed Citizens: A social welfare component of the housing plan would see unemployed Zimbabweans receive subsidized or even free “RDP-style” houses, similar to South Africa’s model.
  • Rural Land Protection: The plan emphasizes a clear separation of rural and urban land to protect the land rights of local communities and prevent external encroachment.

An Innovative Economic and Governance Model

The ambitious housing and infrastructure projects would be funded through an innovative build-operate-transfer (BOT) model with development partners. This model aims to attract foreign investment and expertise to drive large-scale construction. Gambakwe also highlights that revenues from new rail services, levies, and other amenities within these planned cities will contribute to a self-sustaining urban development fund. The focus on construction is also viewed as a powerful engine for job creation and stimulating economic activity.

Beyond housing, the M31 manifesto outlines plans for significant infrastructure upgrades, including new rail connections to link major cities, thereby improving transportation and economic connectivity. In a nod to transparency and modern governance, Gambakwe also reveals the development of a digital “manifesto tool.” This platform would allow constituents to directly request and manage development projects, fostering a new level of accountability and engagement.

Leadership, Social Welfare, and Reform

The coalition’s political organization is presented as a break from the past. Rather than a single leader, it operates as a shared leadership model, with Fadzayi Mahere invited to serve as the presidential candidate and national leader. Gambakwe calls for active participation from youth and all Zimbabweans, urging them to become candidates for change.

The manifesto also addresses social welfare, with proposals for providing social pensions and support for impoverished citizens. Looking outward, the “homecoming” initiative seeks to encourage the Zimbabwean diaspora to return home, promising access to land and property. Finally, M31 takes a strong stance against the pervasive issues of nepotism and corruption, committing to a comprehensive reform of public services, including the country’s decaying water and housing systems.

Timeline of Key Ideas

Here is a chronological breakdown of the key ideas Gambakwe discussed in the video:

  • 0:00 – 5:00 minutes: Gambakwe introduces M31 as a new political coalition and outlines its political vision, aiming to replace the current ruling party by 2028.
  • 5:00 – 15:00 minutes: The core promise of free housing for every Zimbabwean in urban areas is presented, with plans to build planned cities.
  • 15:00 – 20:00 minutes: The funding model for the housing and infrastructure projects is explained, relying on a build-operate-transfer (BOT) model.
  • 20:00 – 25:00 minutes: Gambakwe discusses plans for infrastructure and economic development, including new rail connections and job creation.
  • 25:00 – 30:00 minutes: He introduces a new approach to governance and transparency through a digital “manifesto tool.”
  • 30:00 – 35:00 minutes: The structure of M31 as a political coalition with shared leadership is explained, and Fadzayi Mahere is revealed as the invited presidential candidate.
  • 35:00 – 40:00 minutes: Proposals for social welfare are detailed, including social pensions.
  • 40:00 – 45:00 minutes: The “homecoming” initiative is introduced to encourage the Zimbabwean diaspora to return.
  • 45:00 – 50:00 minutes: Gambakwe concludes with a strong stance against corruption and a commitment to reforming public services.