Fresh Harare demolitions loom

Harare City Council has confirmed that a document currently circulating on social media suggesting impending demolitions of illegal structures is still under internal review and has not yet been adopted as official policy.

The draft, titled "Report on Regularisation and Demolitions of Illegal Structures in Harare", has sparked widespread panic among city residents due to its apparent recommendations for the demolition of illegal developments across the capital.

In a statement issued this week, the council clarified that the document remains a preliminary administrative working paper and has not yet been deliberated or approved by the relevant council committees.

"The aforementioned document is a preliminary internal working draft currently under review and is scheduled for deliberation by the relevant council committee," the council said.
"Its appearance in the public domain at this stage is premature, as it represents an administrative working paper."

Despite dismissing the document's current status, the council confirmed that it is preparing to initiate a formal process of verification and enforcement targeting illegal developments. This process will apply to structures erected on council, State, and privately-owned land without proper authorisation.

Harare City Council stressed that any forthcoming action will adhere to due process and be in line with national laws, including the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act.

"Residents are strongly advised to refrain from engaging in further illegal activities, including the acquisition of land from unauthorised individuals and the unlawful occupation of council and State land," the statement read.
"The city will take appropriate action to address such contraventions."

The city has been grappling with a surge in unapproved developments, many of which have mushroomed on the outskirts of Harare through land barons and informal deals that bypass legal and planning procedures.

While calls for regularisation have grown louder, city officials say their next steps will be informed by legal frameworks and broader urban planning goals.

Residents have been urged to approach council offices for verified information and guidance on land ownership and building approvals.

As pressure mounts over illegal settlements, the city's next move will likely be closely watched by both concerned residents and civic organisations.