A once popular drinking spot called Mushando Bar in Sakubva will become a magistrate's court. The Judicial Service Commission plans to transform this former beerhall into a place where local people can access justice. Located in the OTS Section, this building stopped serving beer several years ago. After a clean-up operation, it briefly housed displaced families. A small college currently uses part of the large structure.
The building dates back to colonial times, when it served as an entertainment center for decades. Modern entertainment choices made business difficult for the old bar. Instead of letting the building decay, Mutare City Council decided to lease it to the JSC. This change brings court services closer to community members who need them.
JSC spokesperson Daniel Nemukuyu said the new court aims to reduce crowding at Mutare Magistrates Court and shorten travel distances for people seeking legal help. The commission wants every district in Zimbabwe to have at least one court. Since 2016, they have already expanded the High Court beyond just Harare and Bulawayo.
Residents group leader Edison Dube praised the move as progress toward bringing services to where people live. He urged other organizations to follow this example. Residents support turning the bar into a court because Sakubva has high crime rates. They believe having a court nearby will help address problems like robbery, theft, and domestic violence.
Some residents mentioned the area around the old bar had become dangerous with frequent muggings. They hope the new court will help fight crime and drug abuse in their neighborhood. Ms Marian Chiwenga called the conversion very helpful for the community. Local man Simba Fore said people want criminal cases handled quickly to build trust in the justice system.
The building dates back to colonial times, when it served as an entertainment center for decades. Modern entertainment choices made business difficult for the old bar. Instead of letting the building decay, Mutare City Council decided to lease it to the JSC. This change brings court services closer to community members who need them.
JSC spokesperson Daniel Nemukuyu said the new court aims to reduce crowding at Mutare Magistrates Court and shorten travel distances for people seeking legal help. The commission wants every district in Zimbabwe to have at least one court. Since 2016, they have already expanded the High Court beyond just Harare and Bulawayo.
Residents group leader Edison Dube praised the move as progress toward bringing services to where people live. He urged other organizations to follow this example. Residents support turning the bar into a court because Sakubva has high crime rates. They believe having a court nearby will help address problems like robbery, theft, and domestic violence.
Some residents mentioned the area around the old bar had become dangerous with frequent muggings. They hope the new court will help fight crime and drug abuse in their neighborhood. Ms Marian Chiwenga called the conversion very helpful for the community. Local man Simba Fore said people want criminal cases handled quickly to build trust in the justice system.
