News Update: Zimbabwe’s New Land Law Allows Sale of Formerly Restricted Agricultural Lands
By Farai D Hove | Two weeks ago, Zimbabwe’s government quietly enacted a significant shift in its land policy, granting beneficiaries of the country’s land reforms the right to sell or transfer their lands. This policy change, introduced by the cabinet in Harare, enables those who obtained land during the reforms of the early 2000s—often for little to no payment—to sell their plots to “indigenous Zimbabweans,” sparking concerns about potential profiteering by land barons and property developers.
The announcement, made by Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, provides that all beneficiaries will now receive “bankable, registrable, and transferable” tenure documents. This enables them to leverage their land as private property, opening up opportunities for sale or transfer that were previously restricted. The government, positioning this move as a way to “unlock value,” has concurrently placed an indefinite moratorium on the issuance of new 99-year leases or permits for agricultural land, effectively ending Zimbabwe’s long-standing land reform program.
Critics have expressed concern that this policy change may empower wealthy land barons to profit by selling land initially acquired under favorable terms. This could lead to an increase in unregulated settlements and poorly planned developments, mirroring past issues with unauthorized urban sprawl and inadequate infrastructure.
The government claims that only indigenous Zimbabweans will be eligible to purchase or inherit these lands, with a focus on veterans, women, and youths. However, this new policy appears to contradict recent statements from other government officials. Just last month, Dr. Anxious Masuka, the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, warned that agricultural land was not for sale and cautioned against illegal settlements. He emphasized that unauthorized occupancy or sale of state land remains a criminal offense.
The mixed messages have caused confusion, with observers concerned about the potential impacts of this policy on Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and land stability. While the government argues that the new policy will enhance security of tenure and economic empowerment, critics worry it will lead to land speculation and ultimately favor those who have historically benefited from Zimbabwe’s land reforms.
As Zimbabwe adapts to this new land tenure landscape, questions remain over how this change will affect ordinary citizens, particularly those who have yet to benefit from past land reform programs.