President Mnangagwa has issued strong warnings to two groups involved in illegal land activities. During the commissioning of four blocks of flats in Dzivarasekwa, Harare, which will house 48 families displaced by floods in Budiriro 5B, the President addressed the ongoing issues related to land management. He first cautioned village heads against exploiting urbanization opportunities by illegally parcelling out land. Secondly, he warned land barons who are invading rural areas, including growth points, peri-urban areas, and communal lands, to immediately stop their unlawful activities.
The President emphasized the need for responsible land management, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights. A Presidential directive was issued to traditional leaders, instructing them to stop any illegal land parcelling activities carried out by village heads in anticipation of urbanization. This directive is to be enforced immediately, with traditional leaders expected to exercise vigilance and ensure compliance with the law to protect communal lands. Non-compliance will result in serious consequences, as the President highlighted the importance of preserving the integrity of traditional institutions and safeguarding heritage.
There have been reports across the nation of some village heads unlawfully demanding payments from land seekers and allocating unauthorized areas, including pastures, water sources, wetlands, and protected zones. To address this issue, village heads are urged to familiarize themselves with the Traditional Leaders Act and strictly adhere to its provisions. Key aspects of the Act include the prohibition of unilateral land allocation by village heads, mandatory consultation with Village Assemblies, and ensuring settlements are only made in approved, designated areas. Compliance with the Traditional Leaders Act will ensure the responsible management of land, protection of communal resources, and accountability.
The Government is also cracking down on land barons who have expanded their illegal activities to rural areas, including growth points, peri-urban areas, and villages in communal areas. These illegal actions will no longer be tolerated, as the Government is committed to protecting rural communities from exploitation, preserving communal lands, and upholding the rule of law. The President warned that land barons would face swift action and severe consequences, signaling a decisive effort to eradicate this problem and promote accountability.
President Mnangagwa also urged citizens to be cautious when purchasing land or stands for housing development. He emphasized the importance of due diligence, advising citizens to engage relevant authorities to verify land transactions before making any investments. The President warned that any structures built on illegally acquired land or without proper authorization would be demolished by the Government, stressing the need for responsible and informed decision-making in land transactions.
Meanwhile, the Second Republic continues to extend its national development housing agenda to rural areas, with notable projects such as the Mutawatawa Rural Pilot Project in Mashonaland East and housing initiatives in Tsholotsho and Binga, Matabeleland North, providing shelter and hope for rural families.
