Zim GBC News | Legal and Parliamentary Affairs
HARARE – The Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Soda Zhemu, has issued a stern warning to citizens seeking residential stands, urging them to deal directly with local authorities to avoid falling victim to fraudulent land barons.
The minister’s caution came in response to a question from Senator Midiah Kupfuma during a Senate session, who highlighted the escalating issue of land barons exploiting desperate home seekers across the country’s ten provinces.
“What measures are being taken to prevent people from losing money to land barons in all ten provinces?” Kupfuma asked.
“Many are falling victim while trying to acquire land to build homes.”
In his response, Minister Zhemu pinpointed the root of the problem, stating that many victims willingly bypass official channels, leading to financial losses.
“We encourage people to go through local authorities,” Zhemu emphasized.
“Residential places are available where people are permitted to build. Don’t rely on informal arrangements where names are written without verification.”
He stressed that due diligence is non-negotiable before any money changes hands.
“If someone is selling a stand, verify with the council whether they are the rightful owner and have permission to sell,” the Minister advised.
“Otherwise, you risk buying from land barons who simply count steps and parcel out land.”
Zhemu reminded the public that his ministry, which has structures at both provincial and district levels, is a key resource for guidance on legitimate land acquisition.
“People should not buy buildings or land without verifying ownership,” he reiterated.
“That information is available through councils or the Ministry of Local Government.”
The government’s message is clear: to combat land fraud, citizens must use official pathways and conduct proper verification before purchasing any property.
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