About 65,000 residents in Chitungwiza, Southlea Park, and Epworth will soon receive their long-awaited title deeds under the Kwangu/Ngakwami Presidential Title Deeds Programme, a government official has said.
In an exclusive interview with <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/chitown-southlea-park-epworth-title-deeds-ready">The Sunday Mail</a>, Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Charles Tavengwa said that over 4,500 title deeds are expected to be issued to beneficiaries in Epworth as early as this month.
He said in Chitungwiza and Southlea Park, dedicated field offices have been established to facilitate the processing of residents’ applications.
Residents can start their application process by reaching out via a WhatsApp chatbot at the number 0787 590 569. Said Tavengwa:
<blockquote>
Chitungwiza’s title deeds programme has transitioned from just being set up to implementation and rollout. There are over 55 000 longstanding municipal tenants in Chitungwiza, and issuance of their title deeds will commence this month.
Phase One of the programme in Southlea Park is targeting 9 600 beneficiaries and has been officially activated.
In Epworth, over 2 000 title deeds are in production and slated for issuance this month, while another 2 500 documents will soon be issued in Glenwood and Glenwood Extension (also in Epworth).
Since the launch of the programme, a lot of challenges had to be addressed. In most informal settlements, such as Epworth, authorities had to deal with issues of double allocations, outstanding surveys, inaccurate records and disinformation from land barons.
</blockquote>
Southlea Park is managed by the Order Housing Consortium, which is made up of 56 companies from both the public and private sectors.
According to the report, recently, the engineering designs for critical infrastructure, including water and sewerage reticulation, roads, and stormwater drainage, were completed.
Elijah Chifamba, an engineer who is overseeing the design process for Southlea Park, revealed that residents will soon have access to municipal water through the Water Demand Management Programme.
Under this initiative, designated water storage sites will be replenished weekly, ensuring a consistent and reliable water supply for the community. Added Chifamba:
<blockquote>
Engineering designs have been completed and are now awaiting submission to and approval by the City of Harare.
A new sewage treatment plant will be constructed at a site on the northern banks of the Manyame River, approximately eight kilometres from Southlea Park.
Engineering designs for a state-of-the-art plant that will use advanced wastewater treatment technology have been made and drawings are ready for submission.
The drawings of a major trunk sewer . . . that will be constructed in a planned trunk sewer corridor are also complete.
</blockquote>
He added that plans are also in progress to supply bulk water from the City of Harare’s existing water network.
This will be achieved through a 13km gravity-fed water main, which will channel water from the Lochinvar reservoirs to twin reservoirs in Hopley.

Pindula News

Around 65,000 people in Chitungwiza, Southlea Park, and Epworth will get their title deeds soon. In Epworth, 4,500 deeds will be given out this month. A special program is helping with the process. Challenges like double allocations and inaccurate records had to be solved. Infrastructure designs, like water and sewage systems, are being finished. Soon, residents will have access to municipal water. Plans are also in place to supply bulk water from the City of Harare. Overall, steps are being taken to improve living conditions for the residents.

"Chitungwiza, Epworth, And Southlea Park Title Deeds Ready For Issuance"

The government has issued 11,000 title deeds in Harare’s sprawling Epworth suburb since 2023, as part of an initiative to regularise informal settlements throughout the country, a Cabinet Minister has said.
In the lead-up to the August 2023 general elections, the ruling ZANU PF party committed to regularising over 80,000 illegal settlements where tenants faced the risk of having their homes demolished.
To support this effort, the Cabinet endorsed the Kwangu/Ngakwami Presidential Title Deeds Programme Consortium, which aims to provide the necessary financial and technical assistance for the issuance of these titles.
On Wednesday, during a session in the National Assembly, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka, who was acting as the leader of government business in Parliament, addressed parliamentarians regarding the progress made in the regularisation exercise. He stated (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200034355/zanu-pf-title-deed-bait-misfires">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
The regularisation of such stands is important and the issue of human dignity should be addressed. In Epworth, there are a few people who were given title deeds, but we were told in the meeting that we held recently that there are 11,000 title deeds which have been distributed and that the team is now going to Caledonia and other new residential suburbs.
</blockquote>
Masuka said authorities need to understand why settlers were receiving eviction notices despite the government’s commitment to regularising illegal settlements.
According to government reports, the Harare Metropolitan Province contains approximately 52,000 houses constructed in illegal settlements, with 25,000 of these structures located in Chitungwiza as of 2023.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government gave titles to 11,000 people in Epworth suburb to make their homes legal. ZANU PF party wants to legalize 80,000 settlements before elections. The government is helping with money and support for this program. The Minister talked about the progress in Parliament. They are giving out more titles in new areas too. They want to know why people are still getting eviction notices. Many houses in Harare are illegal, so they are working to make them legal. It's important for people to have titles to their homes for dignity.

"11 000 Epworth Residents Receive Title Deeds"

Two men from Epworth, Harare, appeared before the Epworth Magistrates’ Court on Thursday facing charges of violating the ZIMSEC Act. Specifically, they were accused of attempting to impersonate another person during an examination.
The court heard that on October 16, 2024, the two defendants, Paddington Chataika (36) and Joseph Murimba (33), conspired for Murimba to take the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Mathematics Paper 2 on behalf of Chataika, who was a registered candidate. As part of their plan, Chataika provided Murimba with a copy of his passport to facilitate the impersonation.
The scheme was uncovered when a whistleblower alerted ZIMSEC officials, who, along with police, went to the examination centre. They discovered Murimba in the examination room, having already completed the test.
Both defendants were convicted and sentenced to 12 months in prison, with 6 months suspended. The remaining 6 months were also suspended on the condition that they complete 210 hours of community service.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two men from Epworth, Harare were caught trying to cheat on a ZIMSEC examination. They planned for one man to take the test for the other by impersonating him. The plan failed when officials caught the impersonator in the act. Both men were found guilty and sentenced to 6 months in prison, with the other 6 months suspended. They also have to do 210 hours of community service. Cheating is wrong and they got caught breaking the law.

Epworth Men Convicted And Sentenced For ZIMSEC Examination Impersonation

An Epworth man reportedly fled for his life, leaving his wife to be raped by a stranger after being threatened with a knife.
According to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/man-leaves-wife-being-raped/">H-Metro</a>, the incident occurred around 10 PM as the man and his 34-year-old wife were walking home from Stopover Shopping Centre along a footpath.
They encountered the would-be rapist, who then boldly declared that he (husband) was walking with his wife.
When the wife denied knowing the assailant, he became violent, attacking her. Despite the husband’s attempts to intervene, the attacker brandished a knife and threatened to stab him.
The assailant then ordered the husband to leave the scene. Fearing for his safety, the husband complied and walked away, while the attacker proceeded to rape the woman.
Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Harare Metropolitan Province, confirmed the case. He said:
<blockquote>
Police are investigating a rape case in Epworth. Accused person threatened to stab the complainant and her husband with a knife.
The accused person raped the complainant twice without protection.
After the rape, the complainant failed to locate her husband and sought refuge at a nearby house.
She sought medical attention at Parirenyatwa Hospital for medical examination.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

An Epworth man ran away when a stranger threatened him with a knife and raped his wife. The incident happened at night while they were walking home. The attacker noticed them together and attacked the wife when she denied knowing him. The husband tried to help but the attacker threatened him with a knife. The husband had to leave to save himself, and the attacker raped the woman. The police are investigating the case, and the woman sought help at a nearby house and hospital.

Epworth Man Leaves Wife Being Raped By A Stranger

Police in Harare have arrested Edison Chidzingwa, a 38-year-old man, for a case of murder that occurred at a house in Overspill, Epworth on August 10, 2024.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said that the suspect assaulted his wife and their 3-month-old daughter using electric cables, striking them all over their bodies.
Chidzingwa had accused his wife of conceiving the daughter without his consent.
The infant daughter succumbed to her injuries and died upon being admitted to a local clinic in Epworth. Police said:
<blockquote>
Police in Harare have arrested Edison Chidzingwa (38) for a case of murder which occurred at a house in Overspill, Epworth on 10/08/24. The suspect assaulted his wife and daughter (3 months) with electric cables all over the body.
The suspect had accused his wife of conceiving the daughter without his consent. The daughter died upon admission at a local clinic in Epworth.
</blockquote>
In an unrelated case, Police in Kadoma have arrested 27 suspects in connection with a case of murder and public violence that occurred in Battlefields on August 9, 2024.
Police said the incident involved a violent clash between two rival groups, identified as Ziga and Magrigamba, at the Matigimu compound.
The altercation resulted in the death of a 40-year-old woman named Matron Mpofu.
The confrontation also led to the destruction of several shacks and two vehicles in the area.
Furthermore, various household items, including clothes, furniture, and cellphones, were set on fire during the chaos.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A man named Edison Chidzingwa hurt his wife and baby girl with electric cables in Zimbabwe. He was mad because he thought his wife had their baby without asking him first. The baby was hurt badly and died in the hospital. In another incident, 27 people were arrested for fighting and killing a woman named Matron Mpofu in Battlefields. They destroyed houses and cars and set fire to things during the fight. The police are investigating both cases.

Epworth Man Kills Infant Daughter Conceived Without His Consent

The government has stated that it will not issue title deeds for unserviced stands, including those in Epworth, Harare, despite President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s promise to do so ahead of the August 2023 harmonized elections, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200028236/govt-makes-u-turn-on-title-deeds">NewsDay</a>.
Mnangagwa pledged to issue more than 11,000 title deeds to Epworth residents a month before the polls.
The Cabinet then endorsed the Kwangu/Ngakwami Presidential Title Deeds Programme Consortium, a programme expected to provide the financial and technical support required for the issuance of the title deeds.
Mnangagwa later handed out 265 securitised title deeds to selected Epworth residents when he launched the programme at Epworth High School.
On Wednesday, some members of the National Assembly asked Housing and Social Amenities Minister Zhemu Soda to explain the government’s position on the issuance of title deeds in urban areas. Said Soda:
<blockquote>
The ministry, in partnership with the private sector, is working to ensure that allocated stands that are yet to be serviced are regularised through the user principle.
The beneficiaries in those areas are expected to pay for certain services to ensure that the road infrastructure, water and sewage reticulation are in place. Without proper servicing of these stands, the government cannot issue title deeds.
This is what the government is trying to regularise so that this leads to the occupants receiving title deeds to use as collateral for loans…
We would want to ensure that the settlement is good and people can be given deeds for occupancy of such an area.
</blockquote>
Critics accuse ZANU PF of using land as a campaign tool ahead of elections and then forget about its promises once victory has been achieved.
Notably, the ZANU PF-led government has been reluctant to give 99-year leases to beneficiaries of the land reform programme, making them perennial tenants on the land they are occupying.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Government Reneges On Title Deeds Pledge

Thousands of Epworth residents are still waiting for title deeds that were promised by President Emmerson Mnangagwa before the August 2023 harmonised elections.
A month before the elections, Mnangagwa promised to deliver 11 000 title deeds to Epworth residents, and Cabinet subsequently endorsed the Kwangu/Ngakwami Presidential Title Deeds Programme which was expected to provide the financial and technical support required for the issuance of the title deeds.
Mnangagwa even handed out 265 securitised title deeds to Epworth residents and promised to bring more when he launched the programme at Epworth High School.
However, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200027536/zanu-pf-title-deed-bait-fails-to-materialise">NewsDay</a> has learnt that only a few ZANU PF activists were handpicked to receive the title deeds amid indications that the government has “forgotten” about the project. Said a source:
<blockquote>
Only a few were issued, those with close ties to ZANU PF. Land barons led by John Mabwe (co-ordinator and spokesperson for Kushinga Epworth Residents Trust) and Moyo are holding Epworth Local Board at ransom contesting the authenticity of the layout plans and general plans of Epworth… the surveyor general up to now is sleeping on duty.
</blockquote>
Mabwe said the layout plan did not correspond with a map that was made in 2001 when squatters received occupiers’ cards. He said:
<blockquote>
The layout plan that was used does not match the map. We have simply challenged this. A lot of elderly widows and orphans were left out of the 2022 layout plan which was not even approved by the Surveyor-General.
We want title deeds as early as yesterday but we want the right procedure to be followed and the right people to benefit.
In Ward 6 (Overspill Extension), the council pegged stands using a fake layout plan of Plan number H.O.F 8 and increased them from 3 856 to 3 904 to benefit some council officials (sic).
So the regularisation process is very scandalous. Council is doing what the High Court interdicted. That’s contempt of court.
</blockquote>
Epworth Town secretary Wilton Mhanda refused to comment to NewsDay on the matter.
Epworth North legislator Zivai Mhetu said residents had received deeds of grant, not title deeds. He explained:
<blockquote>
There is a difference between a deed of grant and a title deed. Development has to take place first, for instance, the installation of roads, among others.
When this happens, Epworth residents will be able to receive title deeds in both paper and digital form. Hence, I will be lobbying Parliament for the construction of roads in Epworth.
</blockquote>
A title deed is a legal document that provides proof of ownership over the property, real estate, and sometimes vehicles. It establishes ownership rights and serves as evidence of ownership.
A grant deed, on the other hand, is used to indicate the transfer of property or real estate from one party to another. Unlike a title deed, a grant deed does not necessarily provide proof of ownership.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Government Keeps Epworth Residents Waiting For 11 000 Title Deeds

A 60-year-old self-styled traditional healer was arrested on Tuesday following a misunderstanding with a married woman he allegedly convinced to divorce her husband before impregnating and “kidnapping” her later.
The traditional healer, Darlington Mabudu, popularly known as Sekuru Nyashanu in Epworth, allegedly used false prophecies to trap Faith Macha.
He charged Macha US$150 for “cleansing” her but she failed to raise the money.
Mabudu allegedly told her that her husband was behind her misfortunes and she had to divorce him.
He reportedly told Faith that she had to accompany him to Shamva for further help, where they ended up staying as husband and wife.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/sangoma-dupes-impregnates-married-woman/">H-Metro</a>, Macha said he met Mabudu along a road and he gave her a “prophecy” there and then. She said:
<blockquote>
Sekuru met me along the road and convinced me that he had the spiritual powers to see my life issues.
I informed my mother about it and we consulted him, but failed to pay the US$150 he demanded.
He later agreed to conduct cleansing ceremonies for free.
Sekuru convinced my mother that he had to take me to various spirit mediums in Shamva and Westgate where we ended up sharing the same bed.
He ordered me to divorce my husband claiming that he was the one causing my misfortunes and to also surrender my child to him.
</blockquote>
Macha said after they returned from Shamva, she had a sexual relationship with another man but after she fell pregnant, he denied responsibility saying the dates did not tally. She said:
<blockquote>
This was caused by Sekuru Nyashanu and I ended up staying with Sekuru at his friend’s house in Westgate.
Sekuru Nyashanu confiscated my mobile phone and my mother looked for me until she learnt about where I was and came to take me by force.
Sekuru Nyashanu is responsible for my pregnancy. I fell for Sekuru Nyashanu’s trap and believed his false visions.
He forced me to divorce my husband and impregnated me.
</blockquote>
Cases of fake spiritualists who take advantage of naive people, especially women are common in Zimbabwe.
Over the years, countless people have lost cash and other cherished possessions to bogus traditional healers, fake faith healers and pastors, while some women have been raped by these charlatans.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Epworth Traditional Healer Dupes, Impregnates Married Woman

Chitungwiza Town Council is poorer than Epworth, Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution secretary Tafadzwa Muguti, has said.
Muguti said this when he congratulated the newly-elected councillors of Chitungwiza Town Council on Monday.
He said the local authority’s mandate was clear, as stipulated in the Constitution of Zimbabwe and the Urban Councils Act Chapter (29:15).
Muguti challenged the councillors to improve service delivery in the dormitory town where flowing raw sewage has created permanent “streams”.
Unlike Epworth, considered by some the poorest residential area in Harare Metropolitan Province, Chitungwiza doesn’t have a single traffic light. Said Muguti:
<blockquote>
Local authorities in Zimbabwe play an important role in promoting sound local governance and undertaking and coordinating urban development to enhance the socio-economic development of Zimbabwe.
Chitungwiza Town Council is one of the largest local authorities, but you are the poorest, even Epworth has more money than you. It is time to build a better Chitungwiza.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Lovemore Maiko (Cllr Ward 7) bounced back as the Mayor of Chitungwiza and will be deputised by Jerita Mutigwende (Cllr Ward 12). Maiko takes over from Kiven Mutimbanyoka.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chitungwiza Is Poorer Than Epworth, Says Tafadzwa Muguti

A man from Harare has been brought before the Harare Magistrates Court on charges of disorderly conduct for throwing stones at President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s motorcade with stones on Julius Nyerere Way in Harare.
Benjamin Mupombwe, who is 30 years old and from Epworth, appeared before Magistrate Dennis Mangosi on Friday and has since been remanded in custody pending his bail application today. The State is the complainant in this matter.
<h3>What Happened?</h3>
According to the allegations, a member of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) was deployed on July 4, 2023, at the intersection of Julius Nyerere Way and Robson Manyika Avenue to control traffic while waiting for the presidential motorcade to pass. As the motorcade made its way through, Mupombwe is accused of throwing stones at it, resulting in his arrest.
In April this year, Masimba Graig Muganira, a man from Epworth, was prevented by State security agents from confronting President Emmerson Mnangagwa during a speech in the dormitory town. Muganira attempted to breach security and race to the podium to confront Mnangagwa, but he was stopped a few meters away and allegedly assaulted behind the VVIP tent.
In yet another recent case, Dumisani Dangirwa, a 43-year-old man from Harare, was arrested for insulting Mnangagwa, alleging that the ZANU PF leader was a failure and would lose the elections scheduled for August 23. Dangirwa was remanded in custody.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Man Arrested For Throwing Stones At President Mnangagwa's Motorcade

The Harare Metropolitan provincial authorities have ordered the closure of all unlicensed and unclean food outlets in the four local authorities of Greater Harare as Harare reports 307 cases of cholera in various suburbs, ranging from overcrowded Mbare to leafy Mount Pleasant.
The metropolitan province now has the second-highest number of cholera cases since the outbreak began three months ago, with Manicaland reporting the highest number of cases. Other provinces that have reported cases include Matabeleland South, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central, and Masvingo. The province is implementing a range of prevention measures, including the closure of dubious food outlets. Harare Metropolitan Provincial and Devolution Permanent Secretary Mr Tafadzwa Muguti said:
<blockquote>
During this outbreak all local authorities have been directed to stop all unlicenced shops and unclean food outlets from operating in open spaces.
All shops, restaurants and food outlets to have clean toilets with running water. 
</blockquote>
The local authorities are Harare City Council, Chitungwiza Municipality, Epworth Local Board and Ruwa Local Board.
The Harare Metropolitan authorities have called on schools and office buildings to ensure that toilets have running water and soap. The area is facing two major problems related to water and sanitation.
The proliferation of unplanned and illegal settlements without sewers and piped water, and the run-down state of Harare City Council’s water purification plants, which operate at only half their capacity. The council is attempting to rectify these issues by closing down contaminated wells and distributing non-food items to prevent the spread of disease.
Cholera outbreaks continue to plague Zimbabwe. In Manicaland, village health workers are conducting disease surveillance and education, while officials are monitoring public gatherings to contain the spread. Mashonaland West is struggling to provide medical attention to a community rooted in religious belief, leading to resistance to scientific solutions.
Health experts are providing water samples, aqua tabs, and disinfection, and raising cholera awareness. The government has activated civil protection units, provided supplies, and offered refresher training for health workers. 
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Harare Closes Unlicensed Food Outlets As Cholera Outbreak Hits 307 Cases

ZANU PF is offering title deeds to around 1.3 million people before this year’s elections, a move the ruling party says is aimed at shutting down land barons.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently issued 265 deeds of grant to Epworth residents. ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa told NewsDay yesterday that they had identified the owners of the properties. He said:
<blockquote>
We now have a system that creates title deeds. We are targeting to issue a prospective 1,3 million title deeds before elections. The houses have been built by developers and owners of the properties and they have been physically identified.
What is only left with is the regulatory framework which is the most painstaking process because we can’t make a mistake with a title deed because it is a document which can be passed from a generation to a generation and people can now apply for loans at the banks because of the title deeds.
Issuing the title deeds to the Zimbabweans is a blow to the land barons because they are the ones who were causing confusion in the parcelling of land and causing evictions.
</blockquote>
Political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya expressed skepticism about Zanu PF fulfilling their promise, saying that similar promises have been made before elections in the past. He added:
<blockquote>
However, as long as the surveying, boundaries are done and properties don’t violate environmental and other development laws, it can be done if they are genuine.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF has been accused of making empty promises towards elections.
In Zimbabwe, the issue of land barons is a significant concern, particularly in the lead-up to elections. Land barons are often connected to powerful political figures, and their activities have been linked to corruption and the abuse of power. 
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

We're Targeting To Issue 1.3 Million Title Deeds Before Elections - ZANU PF

Masimba Craig Maganira, the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/harare-man-breaches-mnangagwa-security-at-epworth-event/">man who attempted to confront</a> President <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> during the Presidential Title Deeds and Settlement Program launch in Epworth, has been taken to court facing two charges.
He is facing a disorderly conduct charge and illegal possession of drugs. 
Maganira appeared before a Harare magistrate on Monday and was remanded in custody until May 7, as he only spoke Tswana and could not understand court proceedings.
The State alleges that on April 22, Maganira was part of a gathering attending the handing over of title deeds to Epworth Constituency beneficiaries. Prosecutors told the court:
<blockquote>
Whilst the President was addressing the gathering the accused forced his way past the security detail and headed towards the podium where the President was standing.
He was then intercepted by security personnel and became riotous leading to his arrest.”
</blockquote>
Maganira is facing a second charge of unlawful possession of drugs after he was allegedly found with dagga in his pockets during a search.
The state said the sachet of dagga weighed 0.006 kilograms.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Man Who Confronted Mnangagwa In Epworth Now Facing 2 Charges

Vice President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a> proclaimed that the government would regularise illegal settlements nationwide. The former military boss made the remarks on Saturday while addressing Epworth residents.
He also promised to bury “the incompetent opposition-led councils” which he said were responsible for mushrooming illegal settlements across the country.
Chiwenga said the central government would regularise the illegal settlements to save home seekers from losses they have incurred if they were to be evicted.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/all-epworth-households-to-get-title-deeds-mnangagwa/">All Epworth Households To Get Title Deeds – Mnangagwa</a></li>
</ul>
Some background
In 2021, July Moyo, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works stated that illegal settlements in Zimbabwe would not be regularised or legalized, as they violate the country’s laws and regulations. He emphasized the need for residents to adhere to the country’s planning and development laws, and for local authorities to enforce these laws to prevent the spread of illegal settlements.
The issue of illegal settlements in Zimbabwe is a complex and longstanding problem, with many residents living in informal settlements without access to basic services and infrastructure. The government has implemented various policies and programs to address this issue, including the provision of housing and the regularisation of some informal settlements. However, the issue remains a significant challenge for the country.
Most of the illegal structures were demolished in the past. Owners would lose their homes and belongings as well as the money they used to buy the land.
Safety measures for home-seekers
Buying land in Zimbabwe can be a complex and risky process, especially when dealing with land barons who engage in illegal land sales. Here are some actions you can take to avoid buying illegal land from land barons in Zimbabwe:
<ol>
<li>
Do your research: Before buying any land, conduct thorough research on the land title and ownership to ensure that the person selling the land is the legal owner. You can check the ownership details with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement.
</li>
<li>
Hire a reputable lawyer: A good lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities of land transactions in Zimbabwe and ensure that all documents are legally binding and in order. It is essential to hire a reputable lawyer who has experience in dealing with land transactions.
</li>
<li>
Inspect the land: Take the time to visit and inspect the land to ensure that it is suitable for your needs and that the boundaries are clear and legally established. Do not rely solely on the seller’s representations and documentation.
</li>
<li>
Verify the authenticity of the documents: Verify the authenticity of the land documents, including title deeds and survey plans, with the relevant authorities.
</li>
<li>
Avoid cash transactions: Always pay for the land using a bank transfer or cheque, and ensure that the payment is made directly to the seller’s account. Avoid cash transactions as they are difficult to track, and you may not have any legal recourse in case of a dispute.
</li>
<li>
Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true: If the price of the land seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of offers that appear too good to be true, as they may be illegal land sales.
</li>
<li>
Report illegal land sales: If you suspect that the land being sold is illegal, report it to the relevant authorities such as the police, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement or the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
</li>
</ol>
By following these actions, you can minimize the risks associated with buying land in Zimbabwe and avoid falling prey to illegal land sales by land barons.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Government Will Regularise Illegal Settlements - VP Chiwenga

A Harare man was on Saturday whisked away by state security agents after he tried to confront President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Epworth.
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200010574/harare-man-breaches-ed-security">The Standard</a>, the incident occurred as Mnangagwa was delivering a speech at the launch of the Presidential Title Deeds and Settlement Regularisation Programme in the dormitory settlement.
As the President was delivering his speech, a young man raced to the stage to confront Mnangagwa but was stopped by State security agents a few metres away.
He was then taken behind a VVIP tent where he was beaten up.
At the event, Mnangagwa handed over 265 title deeds to residents and promised them that more were coming. He said:
<blockquote>
The regularisation of this settlement is a mammoth development project which must be collective in nature.
Every individual and household effort, skills and contribution counts. Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo’.
Let us remain focused, united and determined to see the success of this project.
We must transform Epworth and other human settlements while ensuring that benefiting households enjoy the real value of their properties and environments.
</blockquote>
The Government says the 11 200 title deeds that are ready for Epworth residents are part of the targeted 38 000 for the sprawling suburb.
Thousands of ZANU PF supporters were bussed to the venue from various parts of Harare to attend the event.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare Man Breaches Mnangagwa Security At Epworth Event

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said all households in Epworth, Harare will eventually get title deeds for their properties.
Title deeds are legal documents that demonstrate ownership or title to a particular piece of property.
They are important for establishing a clear title to the property and can be used as evidence in disputes over ownership or boundaries.
The <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/all-households-to-get-title-deeds-president/">Sunday News</a> reported that on Saturday, 22 April, more than 265 title deeds were handed over to property owners in Epworth, with 11 000 more already processed.
The title deeds were handed over to residents by Mnangagwa at the launch of the Presidential Title Deeds and Settlement Regularisation Programme at Epworth High School.
Speaking at the event, Mnangagwa said the documents will provide security tenure for beneficiaries and protect them from land barons. He said:
<blockquote>
The programme is one of the many responsive interventions by the Second Republic to improve the quality of life and livelihoods of our citizens.
The title deeds being issued today are an important empowerment tool and a legal document that gives beneficiaries several rights, which include ownership and security of tenure, and disposal and transfer of ownership from one person to another.
The title deeds also outline the land boundaries of the property and other related conditions.
I, therefore, call upon all the families being issued with title deeds to keep the documents in a safe and secure place.
The process of producing title deeds is very thorough and involves various ministries, agencies and departments working together under the Whole-of-Government approach.
This guarantees the security of the final title deeds and protects against counterfeit or fake documents.
The days when people would lose their hard-earned savings to unscrupulous merchants and land barons who sell land without any documentation are now behind us.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa said the programme was going to be rolled out in all the country’s 10 provinces. He said:
<blockquote>
Following today’s historic milestone, the Presidential Title Deeds and Settlement Regularisation Programme is set to be rolled out to other provinces.
This event demonstrates that we have the political will and technical skills to deliver while sufficient resources are and available to support this exercise.
No one and no place or suburb or township will be left behind. Together, let us continue to build smart, sustainable and orderly human settlements.
</blockquote>
He said a master plan which outlines the location of schools, clinics, hospitals, commercial and industrial sites has been developed for regularisation of suburb.
The President said the second phase will involve servicing of land, construction of roads, improvement of electricity and bulk water supply infrastructure, as well as modern sewer and waste management facilities.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

All Epworth Households To Get Title Deeds - Mnangagwa

President Emmerson Mnangagwa was on Saturday expected to personally hand over title deeds to 350 Epworth households during the launch of the title deeds and settlement regularisation programme.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/title-deeds-roll-out-brings-joy-to-epworth/">The Herald</a> on Friday, Epworth Member of Parliament (MP), Zalerah Makari, said an inter-ministerial task force is heading the programme. She said:
<blockquote>
The President is true to his word and I am glad that he will deliver the main thing we requested from him during our campaign.
Shelter is a necessity so the people are excited and personally, I am humbled that the President would remember a forgotten dormitory township like Epworth.
He (President Mnangagwa) will be issuing title deeds to about 350 families tomorrow (today).
It is an ongoing programme as people qualify and regularisation takes place, people will be going to sign for these title deeds.
The mood is electric, and people are excited, the naysayers said this would not happen, it is a political gimmick but were are now getting title deeds in Epworth which is a great milestone.
</blockquote>
Some of the Epworth residents expected to receive title deeds today are Phillip Mbai Mbai, Maria Tom and Olivia Takavarasha.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

350 Epworth Families Set To Receive Title Deeds

President Emmerson Mnangagwa will on Saturday, 22 April, personally issue title deeds to Epworth residents as he launches the title deeds and settlement regularisation programme.
This was said by ZANU PF chairman for Harare Province Godwills Masimirembwa.
He was speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/epworth-residents-to-get-title-deeds-this-saturday/">The Herald</a> on Wednesday after a Provincial Coordinating Committee (PCC) meeting. Said Masimirembwa:
<blockquote>
This was a very important PCC. President Mnangagwa is on Saturday launching the title deeds and regularisation programme in Harare Metropolitan Province.
So on Saturday at Epworth Secondary School the President will launch this programme where title deeds are going to be issued to families in Epworth as a starting point.
It is a continuing programme not everyone will get title deeds but the President will launch by actually handing over title deeds to a number of families in Epworth.
At a technical level the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs is handling this programme belongs to them. Title deeds are issued under the deeds office which falls under the Ministry.
We as the beneficiaries and recipients of the President’s good works are mobilising the people of Harare to attend this momentous and historic occasion in huge numbers.
</blockquote>
Title deeds are legal documents that demonstrate ownership or title to a particular piece of property.
They are important for establishing a clear title to the property and can be used as evidence in disputes over ownership or boundaries.
Epworth is a largely informal settlement situated to the southeast of Harare where thousands of families have no title deeds to their properties.
For years, Epworth residents have fallen victim to land barons. Residents also face a number of challenges including inadequate access to water and sanitation, poor road infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ED To Hand Over Tittle Deeds To Epworth Families - Masimirembwa

The Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum (the Forum) has urged the Police to deal with perpetrators of politically-motivated violence.
This comes after seven Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) employees were allegedly assaulted by ZANU PF activists on Monday in Epworth for wearing yellow reflectors while conducting voter education. The Forum said:
<blockquote>
7 Zimbabwe Electoral Commission staffers were assaulted by ZANU-PF activists in Epworth on 13 March for wearing yellow reflectors while conducting voter education in the dormitory town.
They were bundled in a combi and assaulted by the activists led by Kudakwashe Damison, a ZANU-PF losing candidate in the 2018 polls before being dumped at Epworth Police Station.
</blockquote>
ZEC on Sunday, 12 March commenced a mobile voter registration exercise ahead of the 2023 general elections.
ZEC said that the outreach will take place at over 21 000 centres nationwide until March.
Prospective voters are required to carry their Identity Card – metal, plastic or waiting pass with the holder’s picture – or a valid passport.
Proof of residence is required but where a prospective voter does not have one, they can sign an affidavit at the registration centre.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF Activists Assault ZEC Employees In Epworth | Report

A 34-year-old Epworth man allegedly raped his ex-lover in Waterfalls, Harare on Monday after learning that she had moved on and had a new boyfriend.
Police in Harare said Richard Sauti visited the 23-year-old victim at her home to discuss her decision to end their affair and then raped her.
The woman reported the rape to her new lover and he accompanied her to make a police report.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the case to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/jilted-man-rapes-ex-lover-for-having-new-boyfriend/">H-Metro</a>.
Insp Chakanza said when the woman told Richard that she was no longer interested in him, and had already moved on, he locked the door. He said:
<blockquote>
He raped her once without protection before fleeing.
The complainant contacted her new lover who then advised her to lodge a police report.
</blockquote>
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Epworth Man Rapes Ex-lover For Having New Boyfriend

Police clashed with over 1 000 ZANU PF youths in Goromonzi on Thursday over the invasion of Lyndhurst Farm.
Several of the youths were arrested by anti-riot police, <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200006068/police-zanu-pf-youths-clash-in-goromonzi">NewsDay</a> reported.
The ZANU PF youths who had been promised stands by some ruling party officials allegedly decided to invade, illegally peg and allocate the land to themselves after the party bosses started dragging their feet on the promise.
The farm, Lot 1 and Lot 2 of Lyndhurst Farm is reportedly owned by one Maxwell Muziwi, a former top State security officer, according to sources.
The farm is adjacent to <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Epworth">Epworth</a>.
Disturbances at the property started early this week when land barons linked to the party invaded the farm and started pegging stands, courting the anger of Epworth squatters who were eyeing the same land.
NewsDay visited the area yesterday and discovered that stands had been pegged with stones and plastics. A police officer who requested not to be identified spoke to NewsDay:
<blockquote>
We came here in the morning as police and have been engaged in running battles with some people who were pegging stands at the farm.
Some Mbare people came first and squatters from Greenvalley, Pentagon and Epworth squatters were not happy because they felt that the land was supposed to be allocated to them. The invasion is just a political thing as we are going for elections.
</blockquote>
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said investigations were underway.
Over the years, ZANU PF party-linked land barons have been illegally parcelling out land to unsuspecting home seekers.
ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa in December 2022 dissociated the party from the land barons describing them as criminals abusing the party’s name.
ZANU PF has been accused of using land to get votes.
In 2022 ahead of the March by-elections, the ruling party<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/mnangagwa-promises-50-000-biometric-title-deeds-to-epworth-residents/"> promised to give title deeds to people who had illegally occupied land in Epworth.</a>
The residents in Harare South were later evicted from the Crest Breeders International farm that they had invaded. 
The Home Affairs minister, Kazembe Kazembe said the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/informal-settlers-to-get-title-deeds-in-a-matter-of-time-kazembe/">government was still committed to issuing the title deeds</a> adding that it’s a process that takes time.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Police Clash With ZANU PF Youths In Goromonzi Over Farm Invasion

An Epworth woman has been arrested after she allegedly scalded a co-tenant and her baby with boiling cooking oil following an undisclosed dispute.
The suspect, Vanessa Nyakabawo (23), fled to Highfields after committing the offence and was arrested at Machipisa Shopping Centre.
Nyakabawo appeared before magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa facing attempted murder charges on Thursday and was remanded in custody to 29 December.
Prosecutors told the court that the mother and her baby are battling for life at Harare’s Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare.
Last month <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/wife-scalds-hubby-with-cooking-oil-over-whatsapp-voice-note/">a man from Zhombe, Midlands Province, was seriously injured after he was scalded with hot cooking oil by his wife who accused him of infidelity.</a>
ZRP spokesperson in Midlands Province, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, revealed that the man, Taurai Hlala, was in the company of his wife Sobrine Muzioni, in the early hours of Sunday, and the couple was listening to music on a cellphone.
Suddenly, audio of a female voice started playing on the phone and a misunderstanding arose between the two. Said Mahoko:
<blockquote>
The suspect is said to have gone to the kitchen where she boiled cooking oil and poured it on the complainant, resulting in him sustaining serious injuries.
</blockquote>
Hlala was rushed to Kwekwe District Hospital where he was further referred to Sally Mugabe Hospital. | <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mother-and-baby-battle-for-life-in-icu-after-being-scalded-with-cooking-oil-by-co-tenant/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Mother And Baby Scalded With Cooking Oil By Co-tenant In Epworth

Residents of Epworth and Eastview, among other informal settlements, should not expect to get title deeds anytime soon after a Cabinet minister said the regularisation of such settlements takes time.
In February, President Emmerson Mnangagwa promised to issue 80 000 title deeds ahead of the March by-elections, a development that critics said was a campaign gimmick.
Last week, National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Daniel Garwe said that the issuance of title deeds is not an event but a process. He said:
<blockquote>
People are misunderstanding the issuance of title deeds as an event. It’s not an event, it’s a process.
In the context of Zimbabwe, the issuance of title deeds is two-fold: The first one is an area such as this one where the settlement has been properly planned, roads constructed, water, sewer and everything.
The other one is that we are now looking at informal settlements like Epworth, Caledonia (Eastview) in Goromonzi. This land was invaded by land barons.
It was not transferred from the Lands ministry to the Local Government ministry. That process is now taking place.
You can’t just come and give a person a paper without a description of the property.
So, the process gives rise to the creation of the proper description which appears on the title deed.
The regularisation process is part of the title deeds issuance process.
</blockquote>
Kushinga Epworth Residents Trust co-ordinator John Mabwe told NewsDay that the regularisation exercise was mired in corruption.
Epworth Residents Development Association secretary Peter Nyapetwa said the ruling ZANU PF party was using the issues of title deeds to gain political mileage ahead of the 2023 general elections. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200005001/government-backtracks-on-title-deeds">NewsDay</a>

Issuance Of Title Deeds Takes Time, Says Housing Minister

An Epworth woman was recently sentenced to a wholly suspended 16 months imprisonment by a magistrate after she poured boiling water on her husband’s genitals, accusing him of cheating.
The woman recently appeared before Harare Magistrate Stanford Mambanje, who found her guilty of assault.
Mambanje sentenced the accused to a wholly suspended 16 months imprisonment. Eight months were suspended on condition of good behaviour.
The other eight months were set aside on condition that she performs 280 hours of community service at Epworth Local Board.
Allegations were that on 3 September 2021, the accused got angry with her husband, Tafadzwa Kachepa (33), while in bed and poured boiling water over his genitals. Kachepa was fast asleep.
The accused allegedly attacked her husband soon after the two had finished making love.
She had accused her husband of infidelity after discovering explicit messages from a suspected girlfriend.
Kachepa produced a medical affidavit as evidence of injuries he sustained on the genitals, thighs, and buttocks. | <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/wife-scalds-husbands-genitals-in-infidelity-row-she-poured-boiling-water-on-his-privates-as-he-slept/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Community Service For Woman Who Poured Boiling Water On Sleeping Hubby's Genitals

Church leaders have condemned the desecration of Zinyengere Cemetery in the dormitory town of Epworth by sand poachers.
Reports indicate that several graves at the site have been exhumed, with the human remains thrown into the nearby Jacha stream by the sand poachers.
Methodist Church in Zimbabwe (MCZ) superintendent for Epworth Circuit, Reverend Josias Mudenda, said:
<blockquote>
I have gone to the graveyard many times to bury fellow church members, only to see what is happening there. It is an eyesore.
The Bible even says graveyards are sacred places. In the Bible, Nehemiah said he could not rest while the place of his fathers’ graves lies waste and the gates are consumed by fire, showing the respect he had for the dead.
I believe that graves should be walled and gated. The local authority needs to work with the community to protect this site.
</blockquote>
The sand poachers are said to be led by a man only known as Christopher.
Meanwhile, Isaac Chirimba, a senior resident of Epworth, criticised the sand poachers for disrespecting the dead. He said:
<blockquote>
These youths are very disrespectful. What they are doing is taboo. Invading a graveyard to earn a few dollars is unacceptable in our society.
Last month, we went to the cemetery to bury a relative and discovered that some of the graves were missing, much to our surprise.
We were shocked when we found a skull and bones scattered all over the place.
</blockquote>
Another senior citizen, Gogo Hilda Sithole, said the sand poachers have access to the graveyard after vandalising a perimeter wall that had been erected at the cemetery by locals. She said:
<blockquote>
Epworth is my home. I have been here with my family since 1960. We used to bury children in this place you now see as plain ground. There is nothing to show that there were graves there.
This is all the work of sand poachers, who will stop at nothing to get what they want.
</blockquote>
Epworth Local Board secretary Wilton Mhanda conceded that sand poachers were a menace but said the issue has been blown out of proportion. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, there are sand poachers, but the situation is exaggerated. We usually conduct raids and culprits are brought to book.
</blockquote>
ZRP community liaison officer for Epworth, Sergeant Maliana Davis, said they were not aware of any cemetery invasion by sand poachers. She said:
<blockquote>
As Epworth ZRP, we are committed to duty. The last time council engaged us was, when some people were constructing houses in the cemetery. We worked together well on the matter.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/no-resting-in-peace-%e2%96%a0-sand-poachers-invade-graveyard-%e2%96%a0-greed-dwarfs-logic">The Sunday Mail</a>

Methodist Church Pastor Condemns "Desecration" Of Graveyard In Epworth

Six men have appeared in court on charges of murder after they allegedly assaulted a suspected thief to death.
The court heard that the accused caught the deceased stealing from their colleague’s car in Epworth, Harare and assaulted him.
After realising that the now deceased was badly injured, Elfas and Ernest Mapwanya, Tafadzwa Mafoshoro, Shamiso Madhishi, Trevor Matambudziko and Philani Nkala, allegedly dumped him close to a clinic.
The court heard that the now deceased was taken home by a “Good Samaritan” where he was later found dead.
The six were remanded in custody, <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/siblings-up-for-murder-2/">ZBC News</a> reported.
In a different case, a 23-year-old man appeared before the courts on charges of theft of a firearm after stealing his uncle’s gun.
Lewis Hlahla was remanded in custody when he appeared in court this Monday.
It is alleged that the accused visited his 78-year-old uncle who stays alone and stole the gun from the gun cabinet.
He was arrested after his uncle realised the gun was missing after the accused had left the house.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Suspected Thief Assaulted To Death

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Ziyambi_Ziyambi">Ziyambi Ziyambi</a> has said the process of issuing title deeds to Epworth residents is proving to be complex hence the delays. 
He told Parliament on Wednesday during the question and answer session:
<blockquote>
We thought it was easy to issue title deeds but there are some issues that need due diligence so that we do not give title deeds to people who are not deserving.
We have a committee which is moving around. At the moment we have identified 6000 households in Epworth.
</blockquote>
He added that the verification and review process was cumbersome but the government was doing its best, according to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zanu-pf-exposed-as-government-backtracks-on-title-deeds/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
He was responding to a question from Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Mufakose MP <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Susan_Matsunga">Susan Matsunga</a> who had asked why owners of mostly old suburbs such as Mufakose, Highfield, Glen View, Tafara and Mabvuku had no title deeds for their occupied houses yet council continued to demand payments for the properties which were built in the 1960s.
Ziyambi blamed the City of Harare for the failure of procedures leading to the government resolving to plan a new programme to be considered in every urban location.
He said the government would fund the processing of title deeds, such as surveys and plans and the verification process of the identities of the title deed holders.
Chegutu West MP <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Dexter_Nduna">Dexter Nduna</a> urged the government to fast-track the processes alleging councillors and council officials were busy taking over houses from those that would have passed on. 
In the run-up to the 26 March by-elections, President Emmerson Mnangagwa promised Title Deeds to Epworth residents, a move that was viewed as vote-buying by critics.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Minister Ziyambi Speaks On Delays In Issuance Of Title Deeds To Residents

An unnamed motorist was robbed of his unregistered vehicle by four passengers whom he had offered a lift along Second Street in Harare. In a statement seen by Pindula News, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said Glendale police were investigating the case. Reads the police statement:
<blockquote>
Police in Glendale are investigating a robbery case where a man (30) lost an unregistered Nissan Note vehicle, a cellphone, US$360 and ZAR200 cash, as well as a bag with various clothes to four unknown male adults at the Virginia Farm bus stop in Glendale on 07/08/22 at around 0100 hours. The complainant offered a lift to the suspects along Second Street, Harare, on the pretext that they were going to Bindura. Along the way, the suspects attacked the complainant and stole his valuables.
</blockquote>
In a related case, a 64-year-old taxi driver was robbed of his Honda fit vehicle by four unknown suspects who posed as genuine passengers intending to hire the complainant to Glenwood, Epworth.
The assailants were picked at Jongwe Corner, Hatfield on Sunday (yesterday) at around 1945 hours.
Cases of this nature have been increasing lately.
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Motorist Robbed Of Unregistered Vehicle, Phone, Cash By Passengers

The ZANU PF-led government has seemingly backtracked on its earlier promise to give title deeds to thousands of informal settlers in areas around Harare and other parts of the country.
Speaking during an election campaign rally in Epworth in March this year, President Emmerson Mnangagwa said that all people who built houses illegally will be given title deeds.
However, ZANU PF supporters in illegal settlements in Harare South were recently evicted from a Crest Breeders International farm that they had invaded.
In Parliament last week, MP for Mufakose, Susan Matsunga (CCC), demanded to know government policy on the issuance of title deeds to women and children in illegal settlements.
In response, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe said there are some procedures that have to be done before the title deeds are issued. Said Kazembe:
<blockquote>
I remember that in the past few days, His Excellency the President (Mnangagwa) promised that such people will be given title deeds. Indeed, as promised by the President, this is something that is ongoing.
However, there are some procedures that are supposed to be done, like surveys, which will be done by the Higher and Tertiary Education ministry under minister Amon Murwira. He informed us that there are some areas which have already been surveyed.
After the survey, then it will be determined where demarcations are and the like. So I would like to promise you that it is just a matter of time, but I believe that if Murwira was in the House, he was going to inform the House that there are some areas which are already done. What is left after the survey is the issuing of title deeds.
</blockquote>
Kazembe then warned council officials who are allegedly collecting money for title deeds from desperate home seekers that they will be prosecuted for corruption.
The majority of illegal settlements in Harare are reportedly created by land barons, most of them affiliated with ZANU PF. They parcel out vast tracks of land with impunity.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/08/govt-backtracks-on-title-deeds-2/">NewsDay</a>

Informal Settlers To Get Title Deeds 'In A Matter Of Time' - Kazembe

Epworth Member of Parliament, Zalerah Makari (ZANU PF), says they are planning to build a multi-million dollar town centre in the sprawling settlement and initiate other projects so that it will eventually attain town status.
Speaking to NewsDay Weekender, Makari also said they will “soon” build an operating theatre at the local hospital and upgrade the facility to a district hospital. She said:
<blockquote>
We are now working on getting town status for Epworth and we are now planning to build a town centre.
Our hospital is going to be a district hospital, and soon, we will be building a theatre there.
We are also working on street lights, and we have increased the number of ZUPCO buses on the Epworth route.
We have also started a programme to pay fees for more than 1 000 underprivileged children in the area in partnership with some non-governmental organisations.
</blockquote>
Epworth is highly informalised and infamous for the high number of sex workers in the area, with girls as young as 10 years being abused due to high poverty levels. Makari promised to meet them this month. She said:
<blockquote>
In July, we will hold a meeting with vendors and sex workers to see how we can help them because Epworth has several sex workers.
It also has the biggest number of informal traders that need to be regularised.
</blockquote>
Epworth is on the south-eastern side of Harare and most of the dwellings in the area were built haphazardly.
Makari said the settlement will be “cleaned” and houses built on places that are supposed to be roads will be demolished.
In the run-up to the 26 March by-elections, President Emmerson Mnangagwa promised to dish out tens of thousands of title deeds to Epworth residents.
However, critics dismissed the promise as mere politicking as this was the role of local authorities.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/07/epworth-eyes-town-status/">NewsDay</a></h4>

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