BY STAFF REPORTER
Zimbabwe’s 2000 land policy has taken a turn, prioritizing indigenous ownership and control.
In a landmark announcement, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere declared, “The government will implement measures to give security of tenure to every person and to alienate for value agricultural land… All land held by beneficiaries of the land reform programme under 99-year leases, offer letters and permits will now be held under a bankable, registrable and transferable document of tenure.”
Muswere emphasized that this new policy aims to address long-standing challenges faced by farmers, including access to finance and security of tenure.
He stated, “Our people are endowed with agricultural land resulting from progressive government policies, but they continue to grapple with difficulties in accessing affordable, appropriately structured and adequate finance for sustainable commercial agriculture.”
The policy prioritizes certain groups, with Muswere noting, “Priority will be given to veterans of the liberation struggle, women and youths.” He also highlighted that land tenure will only be transferable among indigenous Zimbabweans, emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding the gains of the liberation struggle.
Muswere concluded by stating that these measures will have a profound impact on Zimbabwe’s economic growth and development, unlocking the full value of land and enhancing the performance of the economy.