Zimbabwe’s Agriculture Minister, Anxious Masuka, has made a definitive stand against illegal settlement on state-designated agricultural land.
This decision is a direct response to the recent spate of severe flooding and drowning incidents in unauthorized housing areas in the southern region of Harare, including the Paddock area in Kuwadzana and Budiriro 5B.
Impact of Flooding on Settlements
The overflow of the Marimba River has left 59 houses in Budiriro 5B uninhabitable, putting the spotlight on the unchecked expansion of illegal settlements.
These affected areas are primarily occupied by cooperatives, who have been selling state land under the guise of regularization and provision of title deeds.
The Role of ‘Land Barons’
These illicit activities are largely orchestrated by individuals referred to as ‘land barons,’ some of whom have been identified as officials and members of the ruling party, Zanu PF.
Their actions have resulted in communities living without basic services such as water, proper sewage systems, electricity, and roads.
Government’s Stance on Illegal Settlements
Minister Masuka’s statement highlights the government’s refusal to legitimize these settlements. The administration plans to enforce the law against those without official land tenure documents.
This measure signifies a governmental effort to curb poor urban planning and the failure to accommodate growing urban populations.
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