Chronicle EditorPeter Matika, [email protected]
FORMER Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (Zipra) combatants have been urged to be patient as they await the imminent distribution of shared properties through Nitram Properties.
In an interview, facilitator and co-ordinator of the programme, Retired Colonel Tshinga Dube, said the board was aware that some members have become impatient over the long-standing issue of property distribution among Zipra veterans.
He said Nitram Properties has taken the necessary steps to ensure a fair and transparent allocation process for the benefit of all involved individuals.
“This initiative aims to provide former Zipra combatants with a rightful share of properties that they collectively own.
“We understand the anticipation and excitement surrounding the upcoming distribution of properties among Zipra veterans,” said Rtd Col Dube.
“We urge all beneficiaries to exercise patience as we finalise the necessary arrangements to kick-start the allocation process. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring a smooth and equitable distribution of properties,” he added.
Rtd Col Dube said the process of distributing shared properties among Zipra veterans was a significant milestone in recognising the sacrifices and contributions made by these individuals during the liberation struggle.
“Through the establishment of Nitram Properties, efforts are being made to uphold the legacy of the Zipra combatants and provide them with tangible benefits that are rightfully theirs,” said Rtd Col Dube.
“With the distribution process set to commence in the near future, Zipra combatants are encouraged to stay informed and await further communication from Nitram Properties regarding the next steps in the allocation process. By working together and demonstrating patience, the beneficiaries can contribute to a successful and harmonious distribution of shared properties,” he said.
There are 10 000 registered members under the organisation, with more than 100 properties already having been identified and documented. Last year hundreds of ex-Zipra combatants drawn from all the country’s 10 provinces convened in Bulawayo to select a 13-member committee to compile a list of the properties and engage the Government.
The meeting was convened by Rtd Col Dube as instructed by Zanu-PF Second Secretary Cde Kembo Mohadi. The committee was led by Cde Volta Moyo from Matabeleland South as chairman; Cde Queen Maligwa from Matabeleland North as vice-chairperson, Cde Buster Magwizi from Mashonaland West as information and publicity secretary.
Rtd Col Dube said President Mnangagwa and his Government were willing to hand over the properties if the ex-combatants adhere to a transparent procedure.
“A number of groups pursued the case without any clear outcomes. Recently, I may say after the new dispensation, President Mnangagwa came with a new policy that all outstanding problems from the first Government must be transparently solved, that includes the sensitive Gukurahundi issue.
“Most comrades who approached the President were told that the Government was willing to hand over the properties provided that we go through Vice-President Mohadi’s office,” he said.
“Vice-President Mohadi called me to his office and gave me an order that we form a committee that will be able to come up with an inventory of all ZIPRA properties, which will be sent to Vice-President Mohadi by the committee.”
When the country gained independence and the ZIPRA combatants returned home, they were sent to seven assembly points. It was during this period that a decision was made that only a fraction of the fighters could not be integrated as the Government had decided that the new army (ZNA) could not carry more than 60 000 members.
“A plan was made for the thousands that would not be integrated, which saw them contributing a minimum of $50 each for the purposes of purchasing farms, buildings, and other commercial entities that would help them avoid destitution,” said Rtd Col Dube.
“However, due to the teething problems that the country went through between 1982 and 1987, some of the properties were confiscated by the then Government led by Prime Minister Robert Mugabe.”
Rtd Col Dube emphasised that the ex- combatants should not mix Zapu properties with Zipra ones as they were integrated into Zanu PF when the Unity Accord was signed.
He said when the properties are returned, a board shall be formed to discuss the distribution or methods to cater for all shareholders with those who have passed on being represented by their widows or children.
Online Reporter