Zim’s Sugar Conglomerates Take-Over Okayed
04/02/2011 14:55:00
Masvingo, February 04, 2011 – A closed door meeting which was attended by
Zimbabwean Vice President John Nkomo is believed to have given a green light
for the complete takeover of sugar conglomerates Hippo Valley and Triangle
and parcel out the land to indigenous black farmers who are Zanu (PF)
supporters.
According to a source who was privy to information that was discussed at the
meeting,Nkomo had given orders that the move be carried out “with immediate
effect”.
The meeting was also attended by Masvingo Governor and Resident Minister,
Titus Maluleke, Lands and Rural Resettlement Minister Herbert Murerwa and
Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Stan Mudenge, among other Zanu (PF)
politicians.
The move comes soon after the take over by Zanu (PF) supporters of Mkwasine
Estates in the Lowveld two weeks ago.
It also comes after the Provincial Lands Officer, Lovemore Moyo, was sacked
for refusing to give the sugar growing industry to the blacks.
Sources who attended the meeting at Benjamin Burombo Building which houses
the governor’s office said Nkomo said that there was no going back with
taking the land as once threatened by President Mugabe last year at the
party’s congress held in Mutare.
“He said that the government is no longer sparing Hippo Valley or Triangle
as had been planned. What is being left for the sugar conglomereates is just
the milling of the cane. All growing will go to Zanu (PF) supporters,” said
a source.
The source added; “He instructed the Governor to be given the list of all
beneficiaries who are going to benefit.”
Radio VOP was unable to get a comment from Nkomo but Masvingo Governor,
Titus Maluleke said:
“It was a closed door meeting that is why we chased journalists away. For
you to ask me what we said is foolish, go and write what you think we said.”