Title deeds for beneficiaries of Operation Garikai

Beneficiaries of Government housing projects - including those under the Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle programme - will soon receive title deeds following Cabinet's approval of proposals anchored on the User Pays Principle.

The development was announced by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere during the post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday.

Dr Muswere said the new policy framework is designed to ensure beneficiaries compensate for housing projects implemented on private, indigenous-owned land, other properties, or urban State land.

Under the User Pays Principle, residents benefiting from the Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle Programme will be required to pay the total development costs, which include the value of the land, servicing expenses, and any related costs.

"The issuance of title deeds will add value to the properties," Dr Muswere said, adding that Government will facilitate negotiations between indigenous and other landowners and the beneficiaries, allowing residents to purchase the land directly over an agreed period of time.

The Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle Programme was launched in 2005 to provide housing for families displaced during Operation Murambatsvina. The latest move marks a significant step toward formalising property ownership for thousands of beneficiaries who have long awaited legal tenure.