Online Reporter
Zvamaida Murwira
Senior Reporter
A one-stop centre has been established by the Government to streamline the issuance of title deeds for landholders.
This initiative includes mortgage arrangements for those unable to pay the full purchase price.
It is part of efforts to enhance land tenure security and productivity in the country.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development is collaborating with the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs to spearhead this initiative.
The goal of the one-stop centre is to expedite the processing and issuance of title deeds.
In a statement yesterday, the Ministry of Agriculture said title deeds would be issued to holders of valid offer letters, A2 permits, 99-year leases, A1 settlements, and Agricultural Land Settlement Act (ALSA) leases.
For farmers making cash payments, surveyed farms will be processed within three days, added the Ministry in a statement.
Farmers who choose to pay within 90 days will have their title deeds processed upon payment of a deposit.
The Government is working with financial institutions to assist farmers needing mortgage arrangements. Further details about these facilities will be announced once finalised.
Farmers will begin the process by completing a data collection form with assistance from a valuation and estate officer. They must submit certified copies of their ID and relevant tenure documents, along with a US$10 processing fee.
A surveyor will then confirm the status of the land and upload diagrams. Verification will ensure there are no disputes.
A valuation officer will determine the purchase price and seek approval. Upon full payment, the conveyancer will enter the farmer’s information into the system, and finally, the deeds official will examine the title deed and register it, issuing a clearance certificate upon successful payment.
The issuance of title deeds marks a significant milestone in land ownership. It reinforces the Government’s Land Reform Programme, which was initiated in 2000.
This system aims to ensure the bankability and transferability of titles, aligning with the country’s Vision 2030 goals.
President Mnangagwa previously launched this programme at Pricabe Farm in Kwekwe on December 20.
This represents a historic step towards enhanced land tenure security in Zimbabwe.
