We are super happy to report that on the 21st May 2026 an anonymous donor was delighted to inform the NTZ that they had received unanimous support in response to our assistance request and full approval for awarding a grant for roof refurbishment and guttering for the Rhodes Nyanga Museum! Materils have been deliverd to site and work has already commenced.
The application for funding was submitted following a ‘Building Infrastructure Condition Assessment Report’ compiled 31st March 2026. The assessment was undertaken in order to evaluate the integrity of its infrastructure and heritage features. As a site of historical significance, the museum requires periodic evaluations to ensure both structural stability and functional usability. The assessment focused on key components, including the roof, walls, doors and windows, drainage systems, and ancillary elements such as fascia boards and eaves, with particular attention to degradation from water ingress, corrosion, timber decay, and masonry or plaster deterioration.
The report stated: that the museum has a gabled roof supported by mature gum timber beams and purlins. While much of the timber remains in good condition, several purlins require replacement. The roof covering consists of corrugated asbestos sheets, which show significant aging, wear, and weathering. Visual inspection revealed leaks in multiple areas, particularly along joints and edges, placing the museum’s historical artifacts and monuments at risk and raising serious conservation concerns. Some previously replaced iron ridges are broken, further compromising structural integrity.
The north-eastern roof elevation features eaves below 200 mm, allowing rainwater to seep into the walls and adversely affecting exterior and interior finishes, contributing to dampness, paint deterioration, and potential long-term structural damage. The ceiling boards throughout the museum have suffered rot and deformation due to persistent roof leaks, with some sections giving way, further highlighting the impact of water ingress on the building’s interior. Additionally, the wall plate in the museum office has deteriorated and requires replacement to ensure proper roof support. Overall, the roof and ceiling are in a deteriorated condition. The combined effects of aging materials, inadequate eaves, broken ridges, leaks, damaged wall plates, and rotting ceiling boards indicate an urgent need for maintenance and rehabilitation to preserve structural integrity and protect the building’s historical contents.
The NTZ is super pleased that this project can go ahead and truly grateful for the funding. A new ceiling will be extremely beneficial in a variety of ways including the protection of priceless exhibits in the museum, protection from rain and wind, reduce the risk of leaks, keep mould and moisture at bay and reduce maintenance costs. Significantly, the repairs will enhance visitor experience. The museum receives many visitors locally (especially school children) and also visitors regionally and internationally.
USE NUMBER: 0775 907 595