Rural people need title deeds as well

Zimbabwe's largest demographic is its rural population, who have cultivated their land for generations, often for hundreds of years, without formal title deeds. Recently, the government announced plans to issue title deeds to new farmers who have been on their land for 24 years or less. This decision raises critical questions about equity and the future of land management in Zimbabwe, especially regarding the longstanding rural population that remains without formal recognition of their land rights.

The government's focus on newer farmers overlooks the historical contributions of rural communities. For many, land is more than just a resource, it is a vital part of their identity and heritage. Denying title deeds to these long, established farmers perpetuates a cycle of insecurity and hinders investment in their land. Without formal ownership, farmers cannot access credit or make improvements that could enhance productivity and sustainability.

Issuing title deeds to rural populations would not only empower these farmers but also stimulate economic growth and development. In many developed countries, secure land tenure is linked to increased agricultural outputs, better living conditions and stronger local economies. In Zimbabwe, where agriculture plays a crucial role in the economy, acknowledging the rights of rural farmers could lead to significant advancements in food security and rural development.

The benefits of securing land tenure extend beyond rural areas. Urban centres like Harare face numerous challenges, including inadequate service delivery, deteriorating infrastructure and severe water shortages. Ironically, some rural roads and water management systems are better maintained than those in urban environments. This disparity emphasises the need for a more balanced approach to land management and resource allocation.

In urban areas, many properties fail to meet the necessary conditions for effective water management, contributing to public health crises such as cholera outbreaks. In contrast, rural properties often offer more space and resources to implement proper water management systems, enhancing overall community health.

The recent Stakeholders Engagement Consultative meeting on the Land Tenure Implementation Program indicated that existing Offer Letters and permits would be replaced by bankable title deeds. This is a positive step, but it must include the rural population that has historically been overlooked.

A comprehensive approach to land tenure should involve:

Equitable Distribution: Ensuring that title deeds are issued to both new and long, standing farmers, recognising their contributions to the nation.

Accessible Financing: Providing options for cash discounts and mortgage bonds, allowing farmers to invest in improvements and enhance productivity.

Community Engagement: Involving rural communities in planning processes to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed.

The government's current approach to land reform must evolve to include the rural population that forms the backbone of Zimbabwe's agricultural sector. Issuing title deeds to long, standing farmers is not only a matter of equity but also a strategic move toward sustainable development. By recognising the rights of these communities, Zimbabwe can unlock the potential for economic growth, improved living conditions and a more resilient agricultural sector. The time has come for the government to prioritise the voices of its rural citizens and ensure their contributions are acknowledged in the land reform process.

Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi