Villagers resist proposed land use change

VILLAGERS from three wards along the Zvishavane-Shurugwi Highway in Runde Rural District Council (RDC), Zvishavane District, have voiced strong opposition to a proposal to convert their communal land into residential plots under a newly proposed Master Plan.

The affected communities - Mbilashaba, Siboza, and Ward 7 - argue that the land is their ancestral home, where they engage in both crop and livestock farming, and that the plan would displace them.

The local council, however, insists the move aims to formalise settlements and curb the spread of illegal structures that are hindering orderly development in the area.

The controversy unfolded during a consultative meeting held on Tuesday in Mbilashaba, attended by numerous villagers, Runde RDC officials, and representatives from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.

Runde RDC lead planner, Mr Liberty Hunyenyiwa, explained that the Master Plan responds to a Government directive requiring all local authorities to develop such planning documents.

"According to the new master plan, we propose the introduction of agro-residential plots to curb the mushrooming of illegal settlements. These plots are not urban; they are stand-alone and designed for both residential and agricultural use," Mr Hunyenyiwa said.

He added that villagers would benefit from formal land tenure, with an option to pay for the land over 30 years, ensuring land security and eventual title deeds.

"You will have land tenure security, and with time, title deeds. As chiefs, headmen, and villagers, you must all support this proposed development meant to benefit you," he urged.

However, Mr Hunyenyiwa acknowledged the concerns raised by residents, including issues around relocation and compensation, fears of illegal urbanisation, and worries that residents may be forced to travel further for farming and grazing land.

Midlands Provincial Planner, Mr Enock Zungula, emphasised that the Master Plan is a national directive designed to support socio-economic development aligned with Vision 2030.

"This is a broad document and various other plans will feed into it, including detailed planning for the proposed agro-residential plots," he explained.

Noting that Runde RDC had not yet submitted its draft plan due to objections, Mr Zungula said, "We cannot allow this process to divide the district. Ultimately, it's about empowering villagers with income-generating opportunities through agriculture."

In contrast, Headman Manyumbe strongly rejected the plan, saying it does not reflect the will of the people.

"There are no illegal settlements here. As traditional leaders, we only allocated land to 20 families. The council wants to take some of our land and sell it to outsiders," he said.

He cited a local family developing a 32-hectare irrigation scheme as proof the land is being used productively.

"We pray we won't lose our land because it will be a real disaster. We are ordinary villagers who cannot afford to pay for this land, even over 30 years," he added.

Resident Edmore Sibanda also expressed opposition, highlighting the area's role as a green belt supporting livelihoods.

"For decades, we've depended on this land. Rather than re-allocating it, Government should issue title deeds to occupants. We are not interested in relocation," he said.

Another villager, Zwelo Nyoni, revealed that some council officials privately admitted the land might be sold to wealthy buyers.

"They confirmed to me this land will be sold to people with money, at the expense of us who are surviving here. Where will we get money to pay for agro plots? Do you want to push us out to make way for rich people?" he questioned.

In response to concerns, both Mr Zungula and Mr Hunyenyiwa assured the community that all objections would be formally submitted to Government for consideration.