Demolitions begin at Gilstone Farm following government ultimatum

Bulldozers moved into Gilstone Farm in Ward 10, Seke, on Thursday as authorities began demolishing structures allegedly linked to illegal land barons.

The operation follows a seven‑day ultimatum issued by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, ordering settlers occupying the land to vacate the area.

Gilstone Farm, located in Manyame on the outskirts of Harare, was originally allocated by government to war veterans and collaborators, many of whom are disabled.

However, in recent days, youths allegedly sponsored by land barons reportedly stormed the farm, threatened long‑standing occupants with violence and began erecting their own structures in what residents described as an attempted takeover.

Sources at the farm said government officials indicated that the demolitions were part of efforts to curb illegal land allocations and restore order in peri‑urban settlements that have seen a surge in unauthorised developments.

Residents watched as heavy machinery tore down homes and other structures built on the disputed land.
Some affected occupants claimed they had purchased stands from individuals presenting themselves as land developers.

Authorities have repeatedly warned the public against buying land from unregistered dealers, commonly known as land barons, saying such transactions often lead to disputes and demolitions.

The latest operation at Gilstone Farm is expected to affect dozens of settlers as government intensifies its crackdown on illegal settlements around Harare.