Online Reporter
Richard Muponde-Zimpapers Politics Hub
The Government has vowed to intensify its fight against land barons, with the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, declaring that those who prey on desperate home seekers will no longer be tolerated.
Speaking at a working luncheon with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Local Government in Harare on Thursday, Minister Garwe said urban state land must be used for the collective benefit of all citizens, not for the enrichment of a few corrupt individuals.
“The policy vision is clear, we must achieve sustainable and efficient management of urban state land to promote urban development, equitable access, and optimal utilisation of this valuable resource,” Minister Garwe said.
“And let me repeat, this is for the benefit of all Zimbabweans, not for land barons. It is unacceptable that innocent people who voted us into office are now being abused by these criminals. Land barons have caused untold pain and suffering, and it is our duty to put an end to their activities.”
He said the ruling administration regards the fight against land barons as central to achieving Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle income economy.
The Minister said illegal settlements created by land barons have defaced cities and towns, undermining proper planning and service delivery.
“Land barons are defacing our local authorities, they are defacing our beautiful cities, and they are creating informal settlements that do not add value to the future of this country,” the Minister said.
“If we are serious about Vision 2030, we cannot allow unplanned settlements to choke our urban areas. We must take this matter as seriously as possible, restore law and order, and protect residents who trusted us to represent their interests.”
Minister Garwe called on legislators and local authorities to work together to confront the scourge, stressing that law enforcement must be tightened to prevent further land invasions.
“Who on earth can sell 4 000 square metres of land for US$2 000? It is unbelievable, it is unacceptable, it is draconian,” he said.
“We must join hands and preach the gospel that land barons do not belong in Zimbabwe’s future. Their criminal activities rob citizens of their hard earned money and destroy the integrity of our towns and cities. We must end this, together, as leaders mandated to protect the people.”
The meeting underscored the Government’s determination to cleanse the housing sector and restore order to urban planning, with the Minister stressing that the fight against land barons is not optional but a national obligation.
