‘Land cornerstone of generational wealth’

PROMINENT businessman and chairperson of the Land Tenure Implementation Committee Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei has said land is the cornerstone of generational wealth and job creation as he rallied Zimbabweans to unlock more value through increased production.

Speaking at the second edition of the Land Tenure Leadership Success Series held at the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) in Bulawayo yesterday, he said the programme is meant to bolster the land ownership model, unlock huge amounts of finance, spur economic growth as well as enhance productivity.

He told thousands of youths and entrepreneurs at the event that all the land held by beneficiaries of the Land Reform Programme under 99-year leases, offer letters and permits, will be held under a bankable, registrable and transferable document.

“Land ownership is often considered a cornerstone of building generational wealth due to its potential for appreciation, income generation, and long-term stability,” said Dr Tagwirei.

“It’s a tangible asset that can be passed down through families, creating a legacy of financial security and opportunity. Land values tend to increase over time, especially in areas with growth and development.”

He said land can be leased or used for various income-generating activities, such as farming, mining, or development projects.

Dr Tagwirei said, unlike some investments, land is a physical asset that cannot be easily destroyed or devalued, providing a sense of security.

“Land can be passed down through generations, providing a foundation for future financial security and opportunities. While land ownership offers many benefits, it is important to consider factors such as location, potential for development and local regulations when making investment decisions,” said Dr Tagwirei.

To ensure the smooth facilitation of the process, the Government issued an indefinite suspension on the issuance of any new 99-year leases, offer letters and permits for agricultural land.

“Land ownership has played a crucial role in the history of humanity. It has been a symbol of power, wealth, and social status for thousands of years. In ancient civilisations, land was considered a sacred and valuable resource that was passed down from generation to generation,” he said.

“Land ownership remains a significant aspect of modern society. It is a secure store of value that can provide financial stability for generations to come,” said Dr Tagwirei.

Speaking at the same event, Minister of Information Communication Technology (ICT), Postal and Courier Services, Dr Tatenda Mavetera said digital interventions such as the establishment of a national digital land registry is essential to ensure the success of the land tenure programme.

Dr Mavetera proposed that 30 percent of all digitally processed titles be reserved for women-headed households to empower women and foster gender equity in land ownership.

The Land Tenure Implementation Programme was launched last year by President Mnangagwa with the anticipation of spurring economic growth as well as enhancing productivity.

Under the new era, all the land held by beneficiaries of the Land Reform Programme under 99-year leases, offer letters and permits will be held under a bankable, registrable and transferable document.

President Mnangagwa has said in implementing the new system, priority will be given to veterans of the liberation struggle, youths and women.

The President has since constituted a Cabinet Oversight Committee chaired by Defence Minister Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri to lead the reform process.

A technical committee, the Land Tenure Implementation Committee (LTIC), to coordinate and steer the implementation of this process will also be constituted.

These Committees will work diligently to develop improved security of tenure for land beneficiaries while ensuring that the value of agricultural and urban State land is fully unlocked to guarantee inclusive and nationwide economic development.

The Government has vowed to put in place all the necessary institutional and logistical mechanisms to ensure the smooth coordination and implementation of these new policies and objectives.