The Zimbabwean government has recently suspended local councils’ authority to approve land-use changes, a move aimed at curbing the unauthorised conversion of green spaces into residential plots and the proliferation of unregulated schools in suburban areas.
This decision responds to escalating concerns over illegal land occupations, particularly in Harare’s Mabelreign suburb, where politically connected land barons have been accused of distributing plots on public greenways without proper authorisation.
Ward 16 Councillor Denford Ngadziore highlighted that these invasions are part of a broader, orchestrated effort to seize land across various neighbourhoods, including Haig Park, Meyrick Park, and Greencroft. He emphasised that such developments lack the necessary legal documentation and warned that any structures erected without council approval are subject to demolition.
In response to these challenges, the government has mandated that all local authorities establish fully functional planning departments and develop comprehensive master plans by June 30, 2024. This directive, part of the “Call to Action – No Compromise to Service Delivery” blueprint, aims to enhance urban planning and prevent the emergence of haphazard structures in urban settlements.
The suspension of councils’ powers to issue change-of-land-use permits underscores the government’s commitment to restoring order in urban development and safeguarding public spaces designated for essential services. It also reflects a broader initiative to reform outdated town planning laws and address the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation and illegal land allocations.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to report unauthorised developments and collaborate with authorities to ensure sustainable and lawful urban growth
