Paidamoyo Chipunza Senior Reporter
Government on Friday announced a nine-member land commission appointed by President Mugabe in terms of section 296 of the Constitution.
The Zimbabwe Land Commission is chaired by commissioner Tendai Bare and deputised by Mr Tadious Muzoroza.
Its other members are Retired Major Abdul Gabriel Credit Nyathi, Jeanatte Marrie Manjengwa, Judith Buzuzi, Emmanuel Eventhough Nyamusa, Margaret Chingamora, Edmore Augustine Mugwagwa Ndudzo and Luke Taurai Buka.
Mr Bare is an administrator while Mr Muzoroza is a lawyer.
Lands and Rural Resettlement Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora said the functions of the ZLC were clearly outlined under section 297 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
It is mandated with ensuring accountability, fairness and transparency in the administration of agricultural land vested in the State.
The ZLC will conduct periodic land audits. It will also make recommendations to Government regarding acquisition of private land for public purposes and equitable access to holding and occupation of agricultural land.
The ZLC will ensure there is no discrimination in the allocation of land and ensure no one holds more than one farm.
It will also recommend usage and sizes of land holdings, simplification of acquisition and transfer of rights, systems of land tenure, fair compensation and allocation and alienation of agricultural land.
The ZLC will investigate and determine complaints and disputes regarding supervision, administration and allocation of agricultural land.
Minister Mombeshora said in discharging its functions, the ZLC must be guided by the principles set out under section 289 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
He said the State and all institutions and agencies of Government at every level, through legislative and other measures, must assist the ZLC in carrying out its function.
“I wish to express my heartfelt congratulations to you upon your appointment. I and the deputy Minister Berita Chikwama, Secretary Ambassador G.T Mutandiro and staff look forward to fruitful collaboration with the incoming ZLC,” said Minister Mombeshora.
He said the ZLC would be funded by Government and development partners.