Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. HARARE, Apr. 24 (NewsDay Live) — Government has approved a land purchase incentives framework offering steep discounts to war veterans, ex-detainees, civil servants and other liberation struggle affiliates, as part of what it said are efforts to strengthen land tenure and boost agricultural production.
In a statement, the Land Tenure Implementation Committee said the framework, approved by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, introduces concessional pricing based on agro-ecological regions, with additional discounts for eligible groups. The committee is chaired by Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
War veterans will access land at reduced rates, from US$10 per hectare in Region 1 to US$1.17 per hectare in Region 5, depending on land size and productivity. Allocations range from up to six hectares in high-potential areas to up to 70 hectares in lower rainfall regions. An additional 85% discount will apply after the concessional rate.
Ex-detainees, restrictees and non-combatant cadres will receive a 30% discount on land purchases, while collaborators will qualify for 15%.
Civil servants, both serving and retired, will access tiered discounts based on years of service: 5% for more than five years, 10% above 10 years, 20% above 20 years and up to 30% for those with over 40 years.
Authorities said the framework is intended to formalise land ownership, expand access to land and recognise contributions made during the liberation struggle and public service, while supporting agricultural investment and rural stability.
Beneficiaries are required to apply through the Ministry of Lands and Rural Development with proof of eligibility and follow prescribed procedures. Those who have already made payments will be reimbursed.
The committee said the scheme proposed after consultations with war veterans and government ministries and forms part of broader land reform measures.
However, critics say the move is aimed at pacifying restive war veterans, some of whom have been vocal in opposing Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 and resisting attempts to extend Mnangagwa’s term of office.
