EASTVIEW, a bustling community known for its diverse pockets, finds itself embroiled in a tug-of-war over mandatory co-operative fees.
Residents are divided, with some arguing that the fees are essential for maintaining shared amenities, while others claim they are an unnecessary burden.
This ongoing debate reflects the complex dynamics within the sprawling neighbourhood, where finding common ground remains a constant challenge.
Eastview, also known as Caledonia, finds itself embroiled in a heated debate over the compulsory monthly fees imposed by the local Eastview Area Development Committee (EADC).
While the committee argues that the payments are essential for infrastructure upgrades, some residents claim EADC is overreaching its authority, sparking growing tensions within the neighbourhood.
At the centre of the tug-of-war are the voices of community leaders, each passionately defending their stance and the future of this evolving neighbourhood.
EADC is led by chairperson Isaac Chikanga and secretary Bernard Musina, who have been working to address the community’s infrastructure needs and services over time.
In a notice circulated to all residents, they outlined plans to develop major roads to tar level, with homeowners expected to contribute financially based on the size of their properties.
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“These roads are in desperate need of repair and we can’t wait for the government to step in,” Chikanga explained at one of the recent monthly meetings attended by NewsDay.
EADC then announced the commencement of major road upgrades across the Eastview/Caledonia community.
According to the letter written by EADC, to fund this infrastructure project, they instituted a mandatory contribution system.
Stands between 200m2 and 399m2 will pay US$20 per month, while those ranging from 400m2 to 1 000m2 will contribute US$40 monthly.
Payment is to be made directly to the developer’s office at EADC.
Failure to comply will result in the developer attaching the stand as collateral and sale of the property to recover costs.
This payment was with effect from November 4, 2025, until all roadworks are completed.
“By taking this stance on the co-operative fees, we’re demonstrating our commitment to self-empowerment and creating the community infrastructure that our residents rightfully deserve,” Chikanga said.
“This is about taking ownership of our neighbourhood’s future.”
However, the committee’s demands sparked outrage among some Eastview residents, who argued that they are unlawful and exceeded the committee’s authority.
“As someone from the provincial development office for Mashonaland East, I was shocked to see this announcement,” said Tendai Nyamadzawo, a development officer.
“A co-operative or development committee can only request contributions from its registered members, not the general public.
“This is a clear outplay of their powers.”
Nyamadzawo penned a strongly worded letter to the committee, stating that the mandatory payments violated co-operative by-laws and national legislation.
“We support community development, but it must be done accountably and transparently and within the bounds of the law,” he emphasised.
“These residents didn’t sign up to be members of this committee, yet they’re being arm-twisted into paying hefty fees.”
The committee, however, maintains that the contributions are necessary for the greater good of the neighbourhood.
“We’re not trying to strong-arm anyone,” argued Shepherd Mutiro, the vice-chairperson of EADC.
“The road upgrades will benefit the entire community, and we’re asking everyone to contribute their fair share.
“It’s a small price to pay for the long-term improvements we’re planning to undertake.”
But not all residents’ groups are convinced.
Ernest Hamandishe, the chairperson of the Tongoville Park Housing Co-operative, expressed concern over the committee’s tactics.
“The way they’re going about this is heavy-handed,” he said.
“Threatening to attach property and sell it if people don’t pay is simply unacceptable.
“There are better ways to engage the community and secure its buy-in.”
As the debate rages on, some Eastview residents find themselves caught in the middle, unsure of their rights and responsibilities.
“I understand the need for better roads, but I don’t feel comfortable being forced to pay the fees,” said local shop owner, Tanya Moyo.
“I’m not a member of the development committee and I don’t think they have the authority to demand money from me.”
Tatenda Taero, a concerned local resident, stated in a recent interview: “The clash of perspectives has left the Eastview community strongly divided, with concerns over accountability and transparency, fairness and the future of their neighbourhood.”
Said Nyamadzawo: “This is a complex issue that needs to be addressed carefully.
“We need to find a way to balance the community’s developmental needs with the rights and concerns of individual residents.
“It’s a delicate balance, but one that’s essential for the well-being of Eastview.”
As the debate continues, the residents of Eastview await a resolution that will bring unity and progress to their community.
The tug-of-war over mandatory fees has left the Eastview community deeply divided, with no clear resolution in sight.
Caledonia Member of Parliament Washington Zhakata has consistently warned his constituents to be cautious of land barons, whom he described as “unscrupulous elements that prey on the vulnerable”.
He urges residents to avoid such exploitative individuals and schemes.
Zhakata stated: “These land barons have no regard for the wellbeing of our community.
“They seek only to line their own pockets at the expense of hardworking families.
“We must remain vigilant and stand united against their predatory practices.”
