The Zimbabwean government has initiated a campaign to address the issue of unauthorized occupation of State land, particularly in rural regions. Individuals illegally occupying this land have been ordered to vacate immediately or face legal action.
Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Rural Development, Anxious Masuka, stated that occupying rural State land without proper authority is a criminal offense under the Lands Act. He emphasized the increasing reports of unlawful occupation of agricultural land across the nation.
“Let me reiterate that, according to the Gazetted Lands Act, it is illegal to occupy rural State land without authorization. No individual is permitted to hold, use, or occupy gazetted land without lawful permission,” Masuka explained.
He warned that those who fail to leave the land could face prosecution, highlighting that only the Lands Minister has the authority to grant such permissions.
“All illegal occupants must vacate rural State land immediately. Non-compliance may lead to legal repercussions under the Gazetted Lands Act,” he added.
Masuka urged the public to report suspected illegal settlers to their nearest Lands office or police station.
This government action comes amid rising concerns regarding the disorderly allocation of State land by traditional leaders in communal areas. Chiefs and village heads have been criticized for granting agricultural land without the necessary ministerial approval, which has led to land disputes and unregulated settlement patterns.
Authorities fear that these practices could undermine the principles of the Land Reform Programme and pose risks to agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, and national development objectives.
Masuka encouraged those holding offer letters or permits under the A2 resettlement model to visit their local lands offices for faster processing of title deeds.
“Land is a vital economic resource that transforms our agriculture and contributes to achieving Vision 2030. Its proper allocation, settlement, and use are essential for the land reform revolution, which must be protected for both current and future generations,” he stated.
The ministry has committed to enhancing monitoring and enforcement to restore order and uphold the integrity of Zimbabwe’s land management system.
