The Urban Development Corporation (UDCORP) has announced the adoption of modern bio-digester technology as the sewer management solution for Phase One of its Knockmalloch Housing Project, marking what the corporation describes as a major shift toward sustainable urban infrastructure in Zimbabwe. The move positions the State-owned enterprise at the forefront of green construction and climate-smart urban planning.
Speaking during a media briefing, UDCORP Chief Executive Officer Joey Shumbamhini said the corporation had deliberately moved away from conventional sewer pond systems in favour of environmentally friendly bio-digester technology for the project’s first phase, which is expected to serve approximately 700 households. The Knockmalloch development comprises high, medium, and low-density housing, supported by infrastructure including roads, water systems, and sewer reticulation.
Shumbamhini said the decision was informed by UDCORP’s ambition to lead in sustainable urban development, noting that traditional sewer systems have historically contributed to pollution, environmental degradation, and public health concerns when poorly maintained. He said rapid urbanisation and growing pressure on local authorities demanded affordable and environmentally responsible infrastructure alternatives.
Unlike conventional sewer ponds, bio-digesters rely on biological processes to break down waste in a controlled and environmentally friendly manner, reducing pollution risks and harmful emissions. The technology also produces useful by-products such as biogas and organic fertiliser, creating opportunities for renewable energy generation and agricultural use. UDCORP says this aligns with a broader circular economy approach where waste is transformed into a productive resource rather than simply discarded.
The corporation said the project aligns with global sustainable development priorities, particularly clean water and sanitation, sustainable cities, responsible consumption, and climate action. Shumbamhini said Zimbabwe must move beyond following global trends and instead position itself among African innovators in sustainable urban development.
A key factor behind the decision, according to UDCORP, is cost efficiency. Feasibility assessments reportedly found that implementing the bio-digester system would cost only around 15 percent of a conventional sewer system for the same housing phase, potentially reducing infrastructure costs while improving affordability for residents and easing the financial burden on institutions managing sanitation systems.
Shumbamhini said countries including Germany, India and China have already successfully integrated bio-digester systems into sanitation and housing programmes, demonstrating the technology’s ability to improve environmental management, public health, and renewable energy generation. He expressed confidence that Zimbabwe could adopt similar approaches to modernise its urban infrastructure.
UDCORP says the Knockmalloch Housing Project is intended not only as a housing development but also as a demonstration of green construction, sustainable infrastructure, and modern waste management systems. The corporation hopes the initiative will encourage broader conversations around climate-smart urban planning and inspire local authorities, developers, and policymakers to embrace innovative infrastructure solutions.
