Land tenure issues in Zimbabwe during the 1990's

Abstract

This chapter traces the evolution of land tenure and the existing patterns of land distribution. It attempts to identify the major tenurial problems found in the five agricultural sub-sectors; the LSCF, Communal Areas, State Lands (Forestry, Parks and ARDA), the Small-Scale Commercial Farm Areas and in Resettlement Areas. Following this, the paper briefly reviews government policies related to land tenure and attempts to propose alternatives to Zimbabwe’s present land tenure malaise. The purpose of this chapter is to provide the macro-level context within which proposals, for resolving the tenurial insecurity of the Forest Commission, should be made. Specifically the land trusteeship role of the state, has led on the one hand, to tenurial dualism and insecurity amongst various social groups, and indecision on the part of the state with regard to the future pattern and processes of land tenure envisaged for the country. On the other hand, this situation leads itself to a wide range of problems, which suggest urgent need for land tenure policy reform. These discussions are intended to a clarify the optimal tenurial conditions suitable for state enterprises, such as the Forestry Commission.