Hlalani Kuhle beneficiaries get title deeds

Residents of Whitecliff, on the western outskirts of Harare, have applauded the government's decision to issue title deeds to beneficiaries of the Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle housing scheme, describing it as a long-overdue measure that will finally secure their tenure and spur local development.

The development follows a Cabinet announcement confirming that formal processes have begun to facilitate negotiations between beneficiaries and landowners, paving the way for residents to acquire legal ownership of their properties under the Presidential Title Deeds Programme.

Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the initiative underscores government's commitment to ensuring security of tenure and promoting inclusive urban development.

"The government will facilitate negotiations between the indigenous and other landowners and the beneficiaries, thereby allowing the residents to purchase the land directly over an agreed period of time. One such notable property is the 1 065.7-hectare Whitecliff Farm in Harare, where 11 000 families are settled," Dr Muswere said.

He added that the government had reached an agreement with Eddie's Pfugari Estate for US$44 million in compensation for the land.

"Some of the benefits of adopting the User Pay Principle are as follows: beneficiaries are assured of security of tenure, as they will be issued with title deeds under the Presidential Title Deeds Programme. The issuance of title deeds will add value to the properties; beneficiaries will have access to basic services," he said.

For many residents, the announcement brings closure to nearly two decades of uncertainty over land ownership following post-2000 land reform resettlements and the expansion of urban housing schemes.

"This gives us peace of mind; we have been living in uncertainty for years," said one beneficiary. "With title deeds, we can finally invest in proper homes and services. We are hopeful that development will now follow - roads, water, and better sanitation."

The Presidential Title Deeds Programme forms part of the Second Republic's broader effort to regularise informal settlements and modernise urban housing, ensuring that every Zimbabwean enjoys secure and dignified shelter.

Officials say the initiative will also drive infrastructure growth by allowing residents to use their title deeds as collateral, unlocking access to credit and stimulating micro-investment and community-led development.