THE land reform programme in Zimbabwe has been a pivotal aspect of the country’s agricultural and economic landscape since its inception in the early 2000s.
However, the lack of secure and transferable land tenure documents has hindered farmers’ ability to invest in their land and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Recently, the government announced the issuance of bankable and transferable land tenure documents for farmers, a move that could fundamentally reshape the agricultural sector.
Understanding the current landscape
Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector has historically been the backbone of its economy, contributing approximately 11% to the gross domestic propduct and employing around 60% of the population.
However, after the controversial land reform programme, agricultural production plummeted.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), maize production fell from about 2,2 million metric tonnes in the early 2000s to less than 500 000 metric tonnes in recent years, leading to food insecurity and economic instability.
The absence of secure land tenure has been a significant barrier for farmers.
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Without formal documentation, farmers face challenges in accessing credit and investment, which are crucial for modernising agricultural practices.
A 2021 report indicated that less than 20% of farmers in Zimbabwe had secure land tenure, limiting their ability to make long-term investments in their farms.
The promise of bankable and transferable land tenure documents
The government’s recent initiative to issue bankable and transferable land tenure documents is a significant step forward.
These documents will provide farmers with legally recognised ownership, allowing them to use their land as collateral for loans.
This change could dramatically increase access to credit, enabling farmers to invest in necessary resources such as seeds, fertilisers and equipment.
Economic impacts
Increased access to financing: With bankable land tenure documents, farmers can secure loans from financial institutions.
This access to credit can help them purchase modern farming equipment and technology, potentially increasing yields.
A study by the World Bank suggests that access to credit can increase agricultural productivity by up to 30%.
Investment in infrastructure: Secure land tenure will encourage farmers to invest in long-term projects, such as irrigation systems and storage facilities.
Improved infrastructure can lead to increased efficiency and reduced post-harvest losses, which currently stand at around 30% for crops like maize.
Enhanced food security: As farmers become more productive through increased investment, Zimbabwe can work towards achieving food security.
The FAO estimates that improving farm productivity could reduce the number of undernourished people in Zimbabwe by up to 40%.
Social impacts
Empowerment of smallholder farmers: Many smallholder farmers have been marginalised due to insecure land tenure.
The new documents will empower these farmers, giving them the confidence to invest in their land and improve their livelihoods.
Community development: As farmers improve their economic status, the benefits can extend to their communities.
Increased income can lead to better education, healthcare and overall quality of life in rural areas.
Gender equality: Often, women face additional barriers in accessing land and credit.
Bankable land tenure documents can promote gender equality by providing women farmers with the same rights and opportunities as their male counterparts. Recent sentiments from leadership
In recent addresses, President Emmerson Mnangagwa emphasised the importance of the land reform in achieving economic growth and stability.
He stated: “Land is the bedrock of our economy. By ensuring that our farmers have secure and transferable land tenure, we are not only safeguarding their rights but also unlocking their potential to contribute to national food security and economic development.”
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development minister Anxious Masuka also voiced strong support for this initiative.
He noted: “The issuance of bankable land tenure documents is a historic milestone for Zimbabwe. It will empower our farmers, enhance agricultural productivity, and attract investment into the sector, which is vital for our economy.”
Additionally, Finance, Ecsswonomic Development and Investment Promotion minister Mthuli Ncube highlighted the anticipated economic benefits.
“By facilitating access to credit through secure land tenure, we are creating a pathway for sustainable agricultural financing that will drive growth and innovation in our farming communities,” he said.
Challenges ahead
While the issuance of bankable and transferable land tenure documents holds great promise, several challenges remain.
The successful implementation of this initiative will require:
Awareness and education: Farmers must understand the benefits of the new documents and how to utilise them effectively.
Infrastructure development: Access to financial institutions and markets must be improved to ensure that farmers can leverage their land tenure for economic gain.
Political will and stability: Sustained support from the government and stability in the political environment are crucial for the long-term success of this initiative.
On this score, the transition from tenure to trust in Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape is not just about issuing documents.
It represents a fundamental shift in how farmers engage with their land and the economy.
By providing bankable and transferable land tenure documents, the government is laying the groundwork for a more prosperous agricultural sector that can drive economic growth and enhance food security.
As Zimbabwe moves forward, the focus must remain on empowering farmers, fostering investment, and building a sustainable agricultural future for all.
- Raymond Tendai Rusinga is a mental health advocate and/or researcher in Zimbabwe who is dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma and improving access to quality mental healthcare for all. He writes here in his personal capacity.
