HARARE (FinX) – In a landmark move aimed at revitalising the agricultural sector, the Zimbabwean government has announced significant reforms to enhance security of tenure for beneficiaries of the Land Reform Programme. This initiative, spearheaded by a Cabinet Oversight Committee, is set to transform the landscape of farming in the country, ensuring that landholders can invest confidently in their agricultural ventures.
The Land Reform Programme, initiated to rectify historical injustices by redistributing land from minority white farmers to the black majority, has seen a paradigm shift in how farming is perceived. Farmers are increasingly viewing agriculture as a viable business opportunity, a change that is crucial for the nation’s economic growth. The government’s commitment to providing enhanced security of tenure is expected to further motivate farmers to invest in their land, thereby increasing productivity and sustainability.
Under the new policy, all land held by beneficiaries under 99-year leases, offer letters, and permits will be converted into bankable, registrable, and transferable documents. This move is designed to provide farmers with a more secure form of tenure, allowing them to leverage their land for financing and investment. The government has emphasized that priority will be given to veterans of the liberation struggle, youths, and women, ensuring that the benefits of land reform are equitably distributed.
“The economic value enhancement on land will unlock resources necessary for fulfilling our constitutional obligations related to land reform,” stated Hon. Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, who chairs the Cabinet Oversight Committee. “This initiative will not only secure the livelihoods of our farmers but also contribute to our vision of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.”
However, the journey towards achieving these goals is not without challenges. Farmers have previously faced difficulties in accessing affordable financing and have been hindered by a lack of security of tenure, which has discouraged investment in infrastructure and sustainable practices. The government acknowledges these issues and is committed to addressing them through comprehensive support programs.
In addition to enhancing security of tenure, the government is also focusing on infrastructure development, including road construction, irrigation, and housing. These efforts are expected to create a conducive environment for agricultural growth and development, ultimately benefiting the entire economy.
As Zimbabwe moves forward with these reforms, the emphasis on security of tenure represents a critical step towards empowering farmers and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector. With the right support and policies in place, the future of farming in Zimbabwe looks promising, paving the way for a new generation of successful commercial farmers.
The Bankers Association of Zimbabwe, president Lawrence Nyazema told FinX that they will issue a comprehensive statement pertaining to the issue, but they believe it is what they have been asking for all along.
“We are meeting next Wednesday as an industry. I’m sure we will have a fully considered position by then. In the meantime, the description of the new instrument sounds like what we have been asking for all along. It’s a step in the right direction that will unlock value from our land,” he said.
