People living in Whitecliff, a community west of Harare, have praised a government plan to grant property documents to participants in the Garikai/Hlalani Kuhle shelter program. The decision addresses decades of uncertainty about land rights following resettlement efforts after 2000.
The Cabinet authorized negotiations connecting current occupants with property holders, allowing purchases through installment agreements under the Presidential Title Deeds Programme. Information Minister Jenfan Muswere highlighted one major transaction involving Whitecliff Farm, where 11,000 households occupy 1,065.7 hectares. Authorities reached a $44 million settlement with Eddie's Pfugari Estate for the tract. He explained that obtaining formal ownership papers would increase property worth and provide pathways to essential utilities.
Local inhabitants expressed relief after years without legal claims to their plots. One participant said receiving ownership certificates brings stability and enables investment in permanent structures and municipal improvements like roads and sanitation systems. Officials believe the program will strengthen neighborhood infrastructure as residents leverage their holdings to secure financing for small-scale development initiatives throughout their area.
The Cabinet authorized negotiations connecting current occupants with property holders, allowing purchases through installment agreements under the Presidential Title Deeds Programme. Information Minister Jenfan Muswere highlighted one major transaction involving Whitecliff Farm, where 11,000 households occupy 1,065.7 hectares. Authorities reached a $44 million settlement with Eddie's Pfugari Estate for the tract. He explained that obtaining formal ownership papers would increase property worth and provide pathways to essential utilities.
Local inhabitants expressed relief after years without legal claims to their plots. One participant said receiving ownership certificates brings stability and enables investment in permanent structures and municipal improvements like roads and sanitation systems. Officials believe the program will strengthen neighborhood infrastructure as residents leverage their holdings to secure financing for small-scale development initiatives throughout their area.
