Land barons continue to defy Govt warnings

Source: The Herald – Breaking news.

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 Deputy Minister Musa Ncube

Obey Musiwa, Herald Reporter

LAND barons in Bulawayo are expanding illegal developments, ignoring Government warnings and putting those who fall prey to these criminals at risk of losing their homes and investments.

The latest controversy involves plot 17 under Umguza Rural District Council, linked to Mr Steven Maxen Maphosa, sold to Mr Trust Vumbunu in 2022, and later taken over by Mr Ndanisa Sibanda amid allegations of fraudulent activities.

Tsholotsho South legislator and Deputy Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities Musa Ncube warned that developers at Lot 17 are engaging in unlawful conduct.

“I am urging residents to be cautious when buying land from these developers. They are selling unserviced land without proper approvals, risking financial losses and health hazards. Verify council approval, check for amenities, and consult local authorities before making a purchase,” she said.

Umguza RDC chief executive officer Mr Collen Moyo confirmed that Lot 17 lacks approved paperwork and has not been cleared for development.

“The town planner indicated that we are unaware of any developments or financial transactions related to Rangemore,” he said.

Attempts to reach Mr Steven Maxen Maphosa (82) were unsuccessful. He is represented by Mr Ndanisa Sibanda, who allegedly continues to defy Government warnings, according to residents. Mr Sibanda, previously a manager for Maczola Investments under Vumbunu, took over the plot last year.

As of this month, no developments have occurred, and residents who paid for stands have been asked to sign new agreements with altered terms.

The agreement of sale between Sambambabezi Contractors, represented by Mr Sibanda, stipulates that purchasers must pay 60 percent of the price upfront and the remaining 40 percent in monthly instalments over 24 months. The property is sold “voet stoots,” meaning buyers accept it as is with all risk taken by the buyer and no legal redress.

Sibanda denied accusations of evictions, claiming he was authorised to sell the land by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.

But, this statement is contradicted by the lack of consultation with the Umguza RDC.

One victim, Beacon of Life Institute executive director Mr Sabelo Mapasure, reported that there are no attempts to evict the school from its stand.

“Despite signed agreements and instalment payments, Mr Sibanda’s takeover has caused chaos, with altered terms and eviction letters,” he said. “This blatant disregard for the Constitution of Zimbabwe is appalling, especially given our school’s registered status and the funds invested by parents.”

Mr Vumbunu had initially given Beacon of Life Institute 10 years to pay, but Mr Sibanda reduced the term to three years, sparking further disputes. On April 1, the school received another eviction letter, even as they sent a withdrawal the same day.

A Rangemore resident who chose to remain anonymous, expressed frustration over the inability to obtain development permits due to changes in the contract.

“When Sibanda took over, the process for necessary permits was stalled, leaving me without access to essential services,” she said.

Another resident highlighted new fees introduced by Sibanda.

“We were required to pay US$15 for stamp duty, despite having already paid US$10 under the previous agreement,” she said, voicing concerns about the lack of development and unclear ownership.

An agreement dated November 14, 2021, shows that Maphosa sold the 20,4479ha stand to Trust Vumbunu for US$132 000, with payment terms over three years.

However, a letter from Dube, Mguni & Dube stated that Mr Vumbunu only paid US$44 350, leading to the cancellation of the agreement. Allegations surfaced that Mr Vumbunu subdivided the property and sold 232 residential stands without the necessary permits.

Rangemore Ward 16 Councillor, Obert Mangwana, said: “These land barons are taking advantage of vulnerable residents. We have issued warnings, but it’s time to take action.”

Residents are urging authorities to investigate the mismanagement and hold those responsible accountable.