The Government of Zimbabwe, through the Minister of Local Government and Public Works Honourable Daniel Garwe, has directed the Harare City Council (HCC) to stop demolishing houses constructed on disputed land, citing the need for careful coordination with his ministry to protect affected residents.
This announcement comes in the wake of recent demolitions in Belvedere, Harare, where numerous homes were destroyed, resulting in significant financial hardship for the homeowners.
Harare City Council Mayor Jacob Mafume
Minister Garwe criticized the council for taking independent action without consulting central government, underscoring the importance of minimizing the impact on communities.
Minister Garwe highlighted that the Harare City Council operates under the oversight of the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works and should follow its guidance on such critical matters. The council’s actions were condemned as “inhumane” for leaving families homeless at a time the rain season is commencing, which contradicts government policy.
According to the Minister, had there been prior coordination, the government could have explored alternative housing solutions to avoid displacing residents abruptly. The Minister also placed responsibility on HCC for the situation, noting that the council failed to address illegal developments during construction.
He questioned why the council did not intervene earlier, pointing out that the affected properties were not developed overnight but over time, during which HCC had ample opportunity to enforce land regulations. In addition to directing the council to halt demolitions, Minister Garwe advised potential homebuyers to exercise due diligence when acquiring residential stands.
He urged them to confirm the legality of any land with the city council to avoid losses and protect themselves from fraudulent land barons, who often promise future government regularization of illegal properties.
The minister issued a stern warning to these land barons, urging citizens to use proper channels when purchasing land.
The government’s intervention aims to protect citizens from losing their investments, ensuring that future demolitions, if necessary, are handled with greater compassion and careful planning.
