Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Herald Correspondent
THE City of Harare has warned that all unapproved or partially built houses in illegal settlements will be demolished as the Government moves to clamp down on unlawful land development.
In a public notice issued today, the City of Harare announced that Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe will next week lead a joint inspection tour of all identified illegal settlements alongside municipal authorities.
“Unapproved structures, whether completed or partially built, will be demolished in line with applicable statutes,” read part of the notice.
The local authority ordered an immediate halt to all unapproved construction activities, including land clearing and trenching taking place without municipal approvals or valid legal titles.
“Any ongoing construction, land clearing, trenching or construction work taking place without official municipal approval or valid legal title must stop immediately,” read part of the notice.
According to the city, the upcoming ministerial tour will inspect non-compliant sites to pave the way for immediate enforcement actions and the prosecution of offenders.
“Individuals, syndicates, or illegal land barons selling, buying, or building on unallocated state or council land will face swift arrest and prosecution under the full weight of the law,” read the statement.
Prospective home-seekers and residents were sternly advised against acquiring land or paying money to unauthorised individuals promising land regularisation, with authorities clarifying that the Ministry will not protect or compensate anyone engaging in illicit transactions.
“Order and lawful land administration will be restored without exception,” council said.
