Crackdown Launched On Land Barons And Illegal Rural Land Sales In Zvishavane

By Desire Tshuma

ZVISHAVANE — Government has launched a joint operation targeting land barons and village heads involved in the illegal sale of communal and agricultural land in Zvishavane District.

In a notice dated 26 June 2026 addressed to all Chiefs in Zvishavane, the District Development Coordinator’s Office said the Zimbabwe Republic Police, working with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, will conduct strict law enforcement visits beginning the week of 30 June 2026.

The communication, signed by District Development Coordinator D. Chokera, warns of a rising trend of “sabhuku deals” in communal areas.

“Our government has noted with concern a rising trend of illegal land sales within our communal areas. Reports indicate that several village heads are engaged in ‘sabhuku deals’, subdividing communal grazing land, riverbanks and state land to sell to desperate home-seekers,” the notice reads.

The operation will target the illegal distribution, parcelling out and sale of communal and agricultural land across the district.

“By copy of this letter, you are being notified that ZRP shall be visiting your areas during the week beginning 30 June 2026,” Chokera said.

The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works said the crackdown is part of broader efforts to protect state and communal land and to curb the activities of land barons who are profiting from illegal settlements.

Authorities have urged traditional leaders to cooperate with law enforcement and to desist from any involvement in unauthorized land allocation.

The notice was issued from the District Development Coordinator’s Office, Stand Number 596/7 Goddard Road, Zvishavane.