Land Disputes: Why Are Solutions Still Out of Reach?

Rising Land Conflicts and the Struggle for Inclusive Governance in Zimbabwe

In recent years, land conflicts have become a growing concern across Zimbabwe, particularly in peri-urban areas where urban expansion meets rural communities. These disputes are not just about physical space but reflect deeper issues of governance, economic inequality, and social justice.

One such example is the Domboshawa Training Centre in Goromonzi West, which has come under the control of Chinese entities through a special mining grant. This has led to the fencing off of water sources and the disruption of traditional cattle-rearing areas, raising concerns among local villagers. The situation highlights how external interests can encroach upon communal lands without adequate consultation or compensation.

In May 2025, Cloverdale Farm, located on the outskirts of Ruwa, experienced violent skirmishes between residents and state authorities. These clashes echo the "Murambatsvina" campaign of the early 2000s, a period marked by the forced removal of informal settlements and the destruction of homes and businesses. The term "Murambatsvina," meaning "cleanse out the filth," symbolizes a top-down approach that often resulted in displacement, loss of livelihoods, and deep-seated resentment among affected communities.

Further east, in Chinyika communal lands, Goromonzi has also become a hotspot for land disputes. In Tafirenyika village, individuals claiming to represent the district council have initiated "peggings" on occupied properties, signaling potential repossession. Meanwhile, in Gutsa village, a letter from Chief Chikwaka and Headman Musonza to state authorities expressed deep concern over the sudden acquisition of ancestral land by the Air Force of Zimbabwe. The letter emphasized the long-standing ownership of the land and the lack of formal procedures, highlighting the need for transparency and respect for property rights.

These incidents underscore a broader issue: the mismatch between the demand for land and its availability. As cities expand, the pressure on peri-urban areas intensifies, leading to increased competition for resources. However, the lack of proper markets, regulatory frameworks, and effective policies exacerbates income inequality and economic vulnerability, especially among rural populations.

Land is more than just a resource; it is central to livelihoods, cultural identity, and economic production. In many societies, people have an intrinsic connection to the land they inhabit, which shapes their lives and futures. As urban populations grow, the challenge becomes how to manage this finite resource while addressing the needs of expanding cities.

The question remains: how can these imbalances be resolved when unemployment is high, incomes are low, and municipal authorities lack the financial capacity to acquire land? The National Constitution provides a starting point, offering protections against arbitrary eviction and ensuring that those whose property is acquired can seek legal redress. However, the implementation of these principles on the ground is often lacking.

Peri-urban regions, often viewed as extensions of cities, are complex spaces where rural and urban life intersect. They are not merely areas for urban sprawl but dynamic zones with unique challenges and opportunities. Effective governance in these areas requires inclusive policies that prioritize the needs of local communities, ensuring that development initiatives do not come at the expense of vulnerable groups.

Despite progress, such as the 2024 Supreme Court ruling that declared demolition orders illegal, the path to sustainable solutions remains uncertain. Recent experiences in Cloverdale, Gutsa, and Tafirenyika villages highlight the urgent need for a robust residents’ movement capable of advocating for inclusive governance and protecting the rights of all citizens.

Key issues include rising population pressures, declining wages, and the emergence of unplanned settlements. These factors contribute to environmental degradation, social conflict, and a lack of basic services. A sustainable peri-urban development policy framework is essential to address these challenges and promote equitable growth.

Ultimately, achieving inclusive local governance requires a coordinated effort involving residents, policymakers, and civil society. Only through collective action can the vision of a more just and prosperous Zimbabwe be realized.