A recent meeting between media representatives and civil society organizations in Zimbabwe shed light on the pressing issue of land manipulation by land barons with political affiliations.

By Adiel Phiri

The discussion highlighted the challenges posed by individuals illegally parceling out land and seeking legal protection under Section 74 of the Constitution.

The Media Centre’s visit to Epworth revealed a marginalized community of over a hundred residents crying out against the Epworth Local Body for colluding with land barons instead of representing the people. This has led to widespread homelessness and poverty.

Executive Director of Mutare Resident Trust, Mr. David Mutambirwa, emphasized that land barons are suppressing the poor, claiming ownership of land where people have lived for over 15 years.

“They are centered in corruption, well-connected, and operate under the ruling party’s proximity for easy access to land,” he said.

Coordinator of Media Alliance of Zimbabwe, Mr. Nigel James Nyamutumbu, pinpointed five critical points regarding land barons, including lack of transparency, accountability, partisanship, and political questions.

“What is lacking is transparency, accountability, and political will to address the issue of land barons in Zimbabwe,” he said.

Member of Zim Rights, Mr. John Mabwe, highlighted the need to address the loophole that allows land barons to evict people like Danis Muranduri, the current housing manager of the Epworth local board, who has been working with land barons to exploit the poor.

The emergence of land barons in Zimbabwe, particularly Harare in areas such as Southlea Park, Epworth, and other places, is a complex issue with deep historical roots. The main reasons behind their emergence include illegal allocation and selling of state or council land by unauthorized individuals linked to local authorities or the ruling political party.

To combat land manipulation, media outlets and civil society organizations have joined forces to raise awareness about land barons’ practices, hold perpetrators accountable, and advocate for policy reforms that enhance transparency and accountability in land management processes. Through investigative journalism, advocacy campaigns, and community engagement initiatives, these stakeholders aim to protect the rights of marginalized communities and ensure equitable access to land.