National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Professor Paul Mavima has warned Zimbabweans against purchasing residential stands through informal and illegal channels, a statement that comes as families in Harare's Stoneridge area face uncertainty following the demolition of houses built on illegally allocated land.
The minister's intervention follows public outrage over the destruction of homes in Stoneridge, where authorities moved in to demolish structures constructed on land reportedly sold without proper approvals. The demolitions have reignited debate over the activities of land barons and the vulnerability of home seekers who often invest life savings into properties later deemed illegal.
In a statement, Mavima urged citizens to acquire land only through authorised local authorities, government agencies, registered housing cooperatives and licensed land developers operating within the law.
"The acquisition of land and residential stands must be conducted through lawful, transparent, and government-approved processes," Mavima said.
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The minister warned that many Zimbabweans continue to fall victim to fraudulent land schemes, often purchasing stands without verifying ownership records, subdivision permits or development approvals.
"The Ministry strongly discourages the purchase of land through informal channels, land barons, or any individuals and entities that cannot provide valid legal documentation."He added:
"Such transactions expose citizens to the risk of fraud, disputes, financial loss, and possible eviction."
The timing of the statement is significant. The Stoneridge demolitions have become one of the most visible examples of the consequences of illegal land transactions, with affected residents arguing that they purchased their properties in good faith while authorities insist the developments were not legally authorised.
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