Government Cracks Down On Illegal Land Sales By Traditional Leaders
The Zimbabwean government has launched a firm response to curb the illegal sale of state land, widely known as “Sabhuku Deals.”
This practice, rampant in peri-urban areas, has worsened the housing crisis, prompting authorities to take action against the unauthorized transactions by traditional leaders.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, has called for an immediate end to unauthorized land sales, urging traditional leaders to collaborate closely with rural district councils.
“We have seen the rise of sabhuku deals, which we certainly say no to.”
He stressed that all authority over land allocation lies solely with the President, ensuring proper management and curbing irregularities.
He further warned that bypassing established procedures creates opportunities for exploitation.”Straying from these established procedures only opens avenues for land barons to exploit the situation.”
To address the issue, the government has introduced capacity-building workshops designed to equip traditional leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage communal lands effectively while adhering to the country’s legal frameworks.
Concerns remain regarding some traditional leaders misusing their constitutional roles as custodians of rural land for personal gain, which has led to public distrust.
Section 282 of the Constitution and the Communal Lands Act clearly state that all rural land is vested in the President, who authorizes its allocation and use.
However, some leaders have neglected their legal responsibilities, jeopardizing the communities they serve, Herald reports.
Professor Jiri urged citizens to avoid informal transactions and follow official channels when acquiring land. “There’s no need for anyone to obtain an offer letter from a window somewhere. An offer letter or a title deed must be processed in ministry offices”.
– HERALD
