Mnangagwa launches historic land title deeds programme

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday handed over the first batch of title deeds under the Land Tenure Implementation Programme, marking a historic milestone in the Second Republic's efforts to solidify land ownership and enhance security of tenure.

The programme, launched at Pricabe Farm in Kwekwe, aims to revolutionize the Land Reform Programme initiated in 2000, enabling the bankability and transferability of land while ensuring economic empowerment for Zimbabweans.

The colorful event was attended by Cabinet Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, service chiefs, traditional leaders, farmers, and business leaders.

In his keynote address, President Mnangagwa described the initiative as pivotal in achieving Zimbabwe's Vision 2030 of becoming an upper middle-income country.

"This is another accomplishment of the Second Republic. Through our National Development Strategy 1, we are committed to delivering transformation, wealth creation, and economic opportunities for all Zimbabweans, leaving no one and no place behind," he said.

The President underscored the historical significance of land ownership, tracing it back to the First and Second Chimurenga.

"The land is irreversibly with its people, and the people irreversibly with their land. The Land Reform Programme remains a cornerstone of our national identity and economic independence," he said.

The new tenure system, which includes 99-year leases and title deeds for A1 and A2 farmers, aims to promote agricultural productivity and attract investment.

"With secure tenure, farmers can access credit facilities, buy inputs, hire labor, and ultimately increase their yields and incomes. The title deed is the ultimate empowerment tool for our farmers, including war veterans, women, youths, and people with disabilities," said the President.

He urged financial institutions to embrace the title deeds as collateral to facilitate farmers' access to finance, critical for enhancing agricultural productivity and profitability.

President Mnangagwa emphasized the need to preserve the gains of the liberation struggle, ensuring that land transfers remain limited to qualifying Zimbabweans.

"The land vests in the President on behalf of the State. This new tenure system will anchor our Land Reform Programme, defending the revolution and unlocking investment opportunities," he said.

Farmers were reminded of their responsibility to use the land judiciously and contribute to the country's agricultural transformation.

The President commended the Land Tenure Technical Committee, chaired by businessman Mr. Kudakwashe Tagwirei, for its meticulous efforts in making the programme a success.

"Your dedication is deeply appreciated. Together, we will continue to build, govern, and pray for our country," he said, reaffirming the mantra, "Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhulekelwe ngabanikazi balo."

The title deeds programme is set to benefit an estimated 23,500 A2 farmers and 360,000 A1 farmers, enabling them to secure their land and boost agricultural productivity. This initiative cements the Second Republic's commitment to equitable land distribution and economic empowerment.

The event marks a critical step in the government's broader strategy to utilize land as a cornerstone for economic transformation and national development.