adminGabrielle Gede Manicaland Correspondent
CIVIC organisations have challenged authorities responsible for land administration to be transparent when handling disputes.
They also demanded accountability in the distribution and administration of agricultural land saying they should conduct periodic audits, investigate and resolve disputes on agricultural land.
Speaking during a National Anti-Corruption Strategies (NACS) workshop held in Mutare, Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ) programme coordinator Mr Farai Mutunhora said the Zimbabwe Land Commission should guard against corruption.
“While the Ministry of Lands allocates land to farmers, the Zimbabwe Land Commission should uphold its role by making sure that land as a finite resource has been distributed fairly, equitably and in a transparent manner with due regard to the interests of minority groups and gender disparities,” he said.
Manicaland police spokesperson Inspector Tavhiringwa Kakohwa said they received reports of land disputes and encouraged the Land Commission to be impartial when handling the disputes.
“I cannot really quantify the number of cases of unfair land distributions recorded but they are enough to indicate the need for those responsible including us as the police department to take action.
“The commission should also be evidence-based, transparent and fair in the discharge of its duties,” he said.
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