Mnangagwa launches ZImbabwe's new land tenure programme

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is set to launch the new Land Tenure Implementation Programme today at Pricabe Farm in Kwekwe, a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing land ownership security, unlocking financial resources, and boosting economic productivity. This follows the adjustments to the country's land tenure system announced by the President in October, which are designed to improve security of tenure for landholders.

The programme introduces a new era in land ownership, where beneficiaries of the Land Reform Programme holding 99-year leases, offer letters, or permits will now receive a bankable, registrable, and transferable document. This change is expected to strengthen the land ownership model, facilitate access to financing, and encourage greater productivity across the agricultural sector.

Speaking during the 380th Ordinary Session of the ZANU-PF Politburo at the party's headquarters, President Mnangagwa highlighted the significance of the programme. He described it as a consolidation of the gains of the Land Reform Programme and a critical step towards achieving sustained agricultural growth. The President also urged communities to remain vigilant and take advantage of favorable weather patterns for a successful agricultural season.

To facilitate the transition, the Government has placed an indefinite moratorium on issuing new 99-year leases, offer letters, and permits for agricultural land. Priority under the new system will be given to veterans of the liberation struggle, youths, and women. Importantly, the security of tenure under this programme will only be transferable among indigenous Zimbabweans, excluding communal land managed by traditional chiefs.

President Mnangagwa emphasized the evolving mindset among Zimbabwean farmers, who increasingly view farming as both a business and a source of livelihood. This shift aligns with the broader goals of the Land Tenure Implementation Programme to elevate the economic value of agriculture.

The President noted that since 2008, the Government has introduced various initiatives to support farmers, such as the Basic Commodity Supply Side Intervention (Baccossi), Inputs and Mechanisation Equipment, Maguta Programme, and the Special Grains Import Substitution Programme. Under the Second Republic, these efforts have been complemented by significant infrastructure projects, including road and dam construction, irrigation expansion, and housing development.

Despite past challenges, such as limited access to affordable finance and inconsistent accountability among farmers, the Government is committed to addressing these issues. A Cabinet Oversight Committee, chaired by Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, has been established to oversee the reform process. Additionally, a Land Tenure Implementation Committee (LTIC) will be formed to coordinate and steer the programme's rollout.

The committees will work to enhance the security of tenure for land beneficiaries and unlock the value of agricultural and urban State land to ensure inclusive and nationwide economic development. The Government is also setting up the necessary institutional and logistical mechanisms to ensure smooth implementation and alignment with its broader policy objectives.

This landmark programme underscores the Government's dedication to empowering Zimbabwean farmers, driving economic growth, and securing the nation's agricultural future.