Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
THE issuance of title deeds is a practical demonstration of Government’s commitment to strengthening local governance, promoting orderly urban development and ensuring that every citizen has a rightful stake in the land on which they live.
Addressing guests before issuing title deeds to 25 Kings City homeowners in Umguza District on the outskirts of Bulawayo yesterday, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, said when President Mnangagwa launched the Presidential Title Deeds and Settlement Regularisation Programme in Epworth in 2023, it marked the beginning of Government’s concerted drive towards the formalisation of insecure settlements.
“I am pleased to announce that to date, more than six hundred families have benefitted from this scheme across the country in areas such as Cowdray Park in Bulawayo, Epworth and Southlea Park in Harare Metropolitan, and Federation in Mutare. Let me assure you- The pace is not slackening, but gathering momentum,” said Minister Garwe.
He said the 25 families that received their title deeds have now transformed from residents to official property owners. He added that the issuance of title deeds marks a victory for the community and a significant step forward in the country’s journey towards organised, high-quality urban settlements in pursuit of Upper-Middle-Income status by 2030.
“Secure property rights are fundamental to economic growth. With title deeds, homeowners can access finance, improve their properties, start businesses, and contribute meaningfully to local economic development,” said Minister Garwe.
He said under the astute leadership of President Mnangagwa, the Government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, remains guided by the constitutional mandate and national vision to provide safe, planned and serviced settlements.
Minister Garwe said the handover of title deeds demonstrates that the vision is not theoretical but practical and achievable, with the ultimate goal being to ensure that every Zimbabwean has access to formal, titled land.
“Kings City is a shining example of private-public partnership. I would like to commend the local authority, planners, engineers and all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to regularize this settlement and ensure compliance with planning standards. Development must be orderly, sustainable, and must uplift communities,” said Minister Garwe.
He said by prioritising legal compliance and infrastructure before settlement, Radar Properties has set a benchmark, adding that the company’s commitment to ensuring that the 25 homeowners received their deeds demonstrates how it has honoured its promise to clients.
