Crackdown on ‘Sabhuku’ land deals stepped up 

Source: Crackdown on ‘Sabhuku’ land deals stepped up – herald

Obey Musiwa

Herald Reporter

THE Government has intensified efforts to stop rampant land invasions across the country, warning that communal land is not for sale, urging villagers to report illegal activities to authorities.

Addressing the media in Harare yesterday, Presidential Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretary Engineer Tafadzwa Muguti said the Office of the President and Cabinet, working with the Ministry of Lands and Rural Development, is determined to protect rural communities from exploitation by land barons and corrupt officials. He said communal land belonged to the people and could not be sold under any circumstances.

“Our position is very clear that communal land is not for sale,” he said. “We are noticing rampant and escalating invasions of land taking place across the country.”

The call comes amid reports that some unscrupulous traditional leaders are fraudulently selling State land to stand seekers, especially those based in urban areas.

Eng Muguti encouraged villagers to report suspicious land deals to the police.

“You have the right to report this matter directly to the police. You also have the right to approach ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution or district development coordinators,” said Eng Muguti.

He stressed that traditional leaders were prohibited from selling communal land or accepting bribes, in line with the Communal Lands Act.