Minister urges home seekers to verify with councils to avoid land fraud

Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities Soda Zhemu has urged Zimbabweans seeking residential stands to approach local authorities directly, warning that shortcuts often lead to fraud.

He was responding to a question from Senator Midiah Kupfuma during a Senate session, who raised concerns about land barons exploiting desperate home seekers across the country.

"What measures are being taken to prevent people from losing money to land barons in all ten provinces?" Kupfuma asked. "Many are falling victim while trying to acquire land to build homes."

Zhemu said many victims bypass official channels and end up paying individuals who lack legal authority.

"We encourage people to go through local authorities," he said. "Residential places are available where people are permitted to build. Don't rely on informal arrangements where names are written without verification."

He stressed the importance of confirming ownership before purchasing any property.

"If someone is selling a stand, verify with the council whether they are the rightful owner and have permission to sell," he said. "Otherwise, you risk buying from land barons who simply count steps and parcel out land."

Zhemu said the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities operates in both provinces and districts, and its officials can guide citizens on how to acquire stands legally.

"People should not buy buildings or land without verifying ownership," he said. "That information is available through councils or the Ministry of Local Government."