The Zimbabwean government has begun compensating white former commercial farmers whose land was acquired during the country’s Land Reform Programme.
Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube announced that the government has issued US$307.9 million in Treasury bonds and disbursed US$3.1 million in cash to 378 farmers, as part of the Global Compensation Deed (GCD).
The cash payment accounts for one percent of the total US$311 million earmarked for the first round of compensation.
So far, the Land Compensation Committee has approved 740 claims. According to Ncube, the remaining balance will be paid through a 10-year bond denominated in US dollars. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
On the matter of compensation, BIPPA (Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement) farmers, as you know in the budget we set aside $20 million equivalent for that compensation. That is going to begin in earnest in this last quarter of the year.
We have been going through a verification process and that process is now producing credible results. We know who they are, who they are not, so we will be able to begin the compensation process.
</blockquote>
The Global Compensation Deed, signed in 2020, was a landmark agreement aimed at resolving a long-standing deadlock between the government and former white commercial farmers.
Under the terms of the GCD, the government committed to paying US$3.5 billion to the former farm owners as compensation for improvements made on the land—not for the land itself.

Pindula News

Zimbabwe has started paying money to white farmers who lost their land. They have given out $3.1 million in cash to 378 farmers. This is just one percent of the total amount they need to pay. They will also give out more money over the next 10 years. The government made a deal in 2020 to pay $3.5 billion in total to the farmers for the improvements on the land. This is to make up for taking their land away during the Land Reform Programme.

Zimbabwe Pays Out US$3.1 Million In Cash To Dispossessed White Farmers

GOVERNMENT OF ZIMBABWE DELIVERS ON COMMITMENT: COMPENSATION OF FORMER FARM OWNERS UNDER THE GLOBAL COMPENSATION DEED COMMENCES
HARARE – 09/04/2025 – The Government of Zimbabwe has started fulfilling its commitment to compensate Former Farm Owners (FFOs) claims under the Global Compensation Deed (GCD) signed in 2020. To date, 740 farms have been approved for compensation by the Land Compensation Committee. In this regard, Government disbursed US$3.1 million for the first batch of 378 processed farms. This amount is 1 per cent of the total compensation claim value of US$311 million. Last week, the Government also issued Treasury bonds related to the first batch of farmers to their custodian bank.
In line with the GCD agreement, the FFOs receive 1 per cent of their claim in cash, with the balance being paid through US$ denominated Treasury bonds with a 2 per cent coupon and maturities of 2 to 10 years. These bonds have the following features: liquid asset status, prescribed asset status, tax exemption, tradable and transferable. The Government allocated US$10 million in the 2025 National Budget for the compensation of FFOs under the GCD. Compensation payments are being made to interested individual farmers.
Giving an update on the progress, the Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, Honourable Professor Mthuli Ncube, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continue implementing reforms that are key to clearing the country’s arrears and resolving the debt burden.
“The payments will continue. We are very serious about this. By settling our arrears, we can tap into the long-term capital, which is essential for infrastructure development and other significant investments. This is not just crucial for the Zimbabwean Government; it also impacts our private sector, which faces restrictions from creditors due to these arrears. Lifting these caps will facilitate access to foreign capital, making it easier to obtain financing to support our industries and create meaningful jobs for our citizens,” he said.
Commenting on the FFOs compensation, Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr. Willard L. Manungo, who is also the Co-Chair of the Sector Working Group (SWG) on Land Tenure Reforms, Compensation of FFOs, and the Resolution of Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPPA), stated, “This is yet another demonstration of the Government’s commitment to the country’s reform agenda. These positive developments present Zimbabwe with a strong opportunity to successfully negotiate its arrears clearance and outstanding debt obligations. It is also a boost towards the country’s re-engagement efforts with the international community.”
The compensation of FFOs marks another significant milestone in the country’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. In February 2025, the Government concluded the disbursement of the initial US$20 million towards compensation of BIPPA-protected investors whose farms were affected by the 2000 Land Reform programme. Both historic milestones are crucial steps as Zimbabwe seeks to clear its arrears, restore debt sustainability, and unlock new concessional external financing in order to achieve its development goals.
The Chairperson of the Compensation Steering Committee and past president of the Commercial Farmers Union, Mr. Andrew J. Pascoe, confirmed receipt of payments, describing the development as “another momentous event.”
“Monday, 24 March 2025 saw the first US Dollar cash payments due under this plan being paid to the signed up Former Farm Owners,” he said.
Mr. Pascoe added: “On 29 July 2020, at State House when I signed the GCD on behalf of FFOs, I highlighted the enormity of the achievement that it was. After almost 20 years, we, as Zimbabweans, had been able to put aside our differences and, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust, negotiated an agreement that laid the foundation for the payment of compensation for improvements on farms which had been acquired by the Government of Zimbabwe under the Fast Track Land Reform Programme.”
“I would like, as a representative of these farmers, to sincerely thank His Excellency, President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa and his Government for standing by the commitment made by His Excellency in 2018 to pay compensation for acquired farms in line with the Constitution of Zimbabwe. For this, we are extremely grateful, and we are confident that the ongoing upholding of the commitments that have been made will attract and strengthen the local, regional and international goodwill that will be vital for the success of the current Structured Dialogue Platform (SDP) on Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process.”
The compensation of FFOs under the GCD falls under the SWG on Land Tenure Reforms, Compensation of FFOs, and the Resolution of BIPPAs, which is one of the three strategic reform pillars underpinning the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. This strategic pillar is co-chaired by the Office of the President and Cabinet, Switzerland, and the international community, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The other two pillars are Economic Growth and Stability Reforms, and Governance Reforms.
UNDP Resident Representative to Zimbabwe, Dr. Ayodele Odusola, said, “UNDP welcomes the progress being made under the BIPPA settlements, the Land Tenure Reforms, the Compensation frameworks, and the initial disbursements under the Global Compensation Deed. These steps are vital for restoring trust, advancing reconciliation, and rebuilding Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. We remain committed to supporting a transparent, inclusive, and sustainable process that contributes to economic recovery and re-engagement.”
Ambassador of Switzerland to Zimbabwe, H.E. Stéphane Rey, stated: “These initial payments are a step in the right direction and hopefully more farmers will come forward to seek compensation based on this development. It is also our hope that the GCD be implemented fully.”
Compensation of FFOs under the GCD is provided for by Section 295 (3) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which states that compensation is “only for improvements that were made on the land when it was acquired.”
Despite resource challenges, the Government continues to make significant strides and remains committed to advancing its economic development agenda. The Government further calls for support from Development Partners to underpin Zimbabwe’s efforts towards Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution.
The Government of Zimbabwe established in December 2022, a Structured Dialogue Platform with all its creditors and development partners, to institutionalise engagement on economic and governance reforms to underpin the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. This is critical for the country to achieve its economic development aspirations, under Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (2021-2025), and also the transition towards the implementation of the National Development Strategy 2 (2026-2030).
Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube 
MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION 
09 APRIL 2025

The Government of Zimbabwe has started paying compensation to white farmers for their former land under a deal signed in 2020. So far, 740 farms have been approved for compensation, with US$3.1 million already paid out. The farmers will receive some cash upfront and the rest in bonds. This is part of the Government's plan to clear debts and attract foreign investments. The farmers' representative is grateful for the payments, calling it a historic event. The United Nations and Switzerland also support the compensation process. The Government is asking for help from other countries to continue with their economic development plans.

Mthuli Ncube Issues Statement On Compensation Of White Farmers [Full Text]

The Zimbabwean government has started compensating former landowners whose farms were taken during the Fast-track Land Reform Programme in the early 2000s. These landowners are protected by Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPPAs).
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube said that funds have already been distributed from a US$20 million allocation in the 2024 National Budget to compensate these farmers.
Ncube described the payments as a historic step forward and an important part of Zimbabwe’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. He said:
<blockquote>
I am pleased to announce that the compensation process has begun. We believe that this process crucial for building trust, honouring our commitments, and ensuring consistency with our Constitution as we address Zimbabwe’s debt challenge.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the payments towards the compensation of investors under BIPPA protection began in the second week of January 2025. Payments are being made to the claimants’ Bank accounts of choice.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwean Treasury has announced that only claimants from countries with BIPPAs signed and ratified before the 2000 Land Reform Programme are eligible for compensation.
In total, 94 farms have been approved for compensation, with claimants hailing from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and former Yugoslavia.
The approved farms include:
<ul data-end="662" data-start="419">
<li data-end="463" data-start="419">Denmark: 6 farms valued at US$13.4 million</li>
<li data-end="509" data-start="464">Germany: 14 farms valued at US$41.0 million</li>
<li data-end="559" data-start="510">Netherlands: 46 farms valued at US$88.2 million</li>
<li data-end="609" data-start="560">Switzerland: 27 farms valued at US$27.0 million</li>
<li data-end="662" data-start="610">Former Yugoslavia: 1 farm valued at US$3.3 million</li>
</ul>
This brings the total to 95 farms, valued at US$145.9 million.
As for the farmers to be compensated, there are:
<ul data-end="901" data-start="778">
<li data-end="798" data-start="778">Denmark: 5 farmers</li>
<li data-end="819" data-start="799">Germany: 7 farmers</li>
<li data-end="845" data-start="820">Netherlands: 33 farmers</li>
<li data-end="871" data-start="846">Switzerland: 10 farmers</li>
<li data-end="901" data-start="872">Former Yugoslavia: 1 farmer</li>
</ul>
This totals 56 farmers set to receive compensation.
The announcement was warmly welcomed by the ambassadors of Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, based in Harare, who jointly expressed their support for this historic move. They said:
<blockquote>
The framework established by the Government of Zimbabwe leading to the full compensation of affected BIPPA farmers protected by Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements, is indeed a historic achievement.
We commend the Government’s allocation of funds in the National Budget as of 2024 to make the compensation a reality.
Several affected investors have received initial payouts, and an emerging sense of closure exists.
It marks a significant milestone, and we consider it a very encouraging step towards a comprehensive and fair settlement for farmers and investors in Zimbabwe, be it in terms of financial compensation or land tenure. Now, it is important for the Government to keep this positive momentum.
</blockquote>
The President of the African Development Bank Group and the Champion of the Zimbabwe Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution, Akinwumi Adesina said:
<blockquote>
The compensation demonstrates the Government’s goodwill and commitment to building trust in the process and improving investor confidence in the country.
The progress Zimbabwe has made, the commitment and resilience it is showing, calls for support from development partners to facilitate the country’s effort in implementing on going reforms and to provide the much-needed cushion to particularly the vulnerable members of the population.
The compensation of these investors is one of the key reforms under the Structured Dialogue Platform on the country’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process.
</blockquote>
In December 2022, the Government of Zimbabwe launched a Structured Dialogue Platform to engage with its creditors and development partners on economic and governance reforms. This initiative aims to support the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process.
The Ministry of Finance said that after the disbursement of the US$20 million allocated in the 2024 National Budget for BIPPA-protected farms, the remaining US$125.9 million will be paid through a multi-year payment plan.
This plan will see fiscal allocations made in the Annual National Budgets from 2025 to 2028.

Zimbabwe is paying back white farmers whose land was taken in the past. The government gave $20 million to start the payments. Only farmers from certain countries are getting compensated. So far, 94 farms worth $145.9 million are approved for payments. Ambassadors from Germany, Netherlands, and Switzerland are happy about this. The government plans to pay the rest of the money over a few years. This is part of Zimbabwe's plan to clear its debts and improve trust with investors. It's a big step for the country to make things right with the farmers.

Zimbabwe Makes First Payments to BIPPA-Protected White Farmers

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has raised concerns about the government’s and some state actors’ defiance of court orders, saying this behaviour contributes to a culture of impunity in the country.
In a statement, ZLHR said they have noted an alarming trend where the state and certain state actors have consistently failed to comply with court orders issued by judicial officers across the country.
These orders often require the payment of judgment debts to victims of human rights violations who have sought legal redress.
As a result, many human rights defenders face difficulties in enforcing compensation orders for victims of human rights violations due to the state’s and some state actors’ refusal to pay judgment debts. Said the ZLHR:
<blockquote>
So deep-seated is the habit, that victims are resorting to instituting additional costly and time-consuming litigation such as applications of contempt of court proceedings against the state and state actors to force them to comply with court orders while in some cases, this has resulted in lengthy court processes, which has the effect of deterring would-be claimants from pursuing their matters against the state.
In some cases, human rights lawyers have on behalf of victims of human rights violations employed additional strategies such as challenging the constitutionality of provisions of the State Liabilities Act, which seeks to promote impunity in cases, where ordinary citizens are rendered powerless to execute court judgments that are in their favour in civil cases.
The provisions of section 5(2) of the State Liabilities Act, which protect state properties from being attached to satisfy unpaid compensation claims to people such as victims of state-sponsored human rights infringements by some state actors and agencies are unconstitutional as they offend fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.
</blockquote>
The human rights lawyers expressed concern over the increased misuse of section 5 of the State Liabilities Act, which prevents the execution or attachment of state property to compensate victims of human rights violations. They said:
<blockquote>
This provision of the State Liabilities Act which grants the state immunity against the execution of its properties by holders of judgment debts, extends an undue and unfair advantage to the state in litigation.
This advantage is unfortunately not extended to other litigants and, as such, induces their inequitable treatment while infringing on the right to equality of all persons before the law and to equal protection and benefit of the law.
Moreover, the phenomenon of defiance of court orders severely undermines the judiciary and the justice delivery system and entrenches a culture of impunity and lawlessness in the country including weakening national institutions that are vital for the protection of human rights, the restoration of the rule of law and democracy in the country.
</blockquote>
The ZLHR reminded the government of its primary responsibility to enforce the rule of law and fight impunity.
The lawyers argued that by enforcing court orders, the executive would fulfil its mandate to ensure citizens enjoy the right to legal protection.
This right is entrenched in the Constitution and other regional and international instruments that the government has signed and ratified.

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights are upset because the government and some state actors are not following court orders. This means people who have been hurt or had their rights violated are not getting compensated. The lawyers are saying this behavior creates a culture where people can do bad things without consequences. They want the government to obey court orders to protect human rights. The lawyers are also challenging a law that prevents victims from getting compensation from state property. They believe everyone should be treated equally under the law. The lawyers are reminding the government of its duty to enforce the rule of law and fight against impunity.

Lawyers For Human Rights Slam Government For Ignoring Court Orders

White commercial farmers in Zimbabwe who lost their land under the country’s land reform programme said that the government has failed to pay part of the $331 million in compensation while reimbursing others who were not part of the agreement.
In a joint letter addressed to the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, dated December 10, 2024, the Commercial Farmers Union and the Southern African Commercial Alliance called for urgent discussions with the government.
The unions said that many of their members are now destitute and have lost their dignity due to the failure to receive compensation through the so-called Global Compensation Deal.
Under an agreement signed in 2020, the government committed to compensating approximately 4,000 White farmers whose land was seized by state-backed militants.
However, it has consistently failed to meet payment deadlines, with the total expected cost of the deal reaching US$3.5 billion over 10 years.
The ZANU PF-led government has defended the land seizures as a means to rectify colonial imbalances, despite reports that some beneficiaries are collecting rent from legitimate farmers who are working the land.
In the letter seen by <a href="https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/business/company-news/2024/12/17/zimbabwe-fails-to-pay-white-farmers-who-had-land-expropriated/">Bloomberg</a> and confirmed by the Ministry of Finance, the unions wrote:
<blockquote>
The current approach risks eroding trust and undermining the structured dialogue platform’s objectives.
We urge your ministry to prioritize dialogue with the GCD signatories to develop a cohesive, homegrown solution that balances compensation with agricultural recovery.
</blockquote>
So far, 1,300 White former commercial farmers have registered to receive compensation, according to official data.
For the fiscal year that ended on March 31, Zimbabwe allocated $35 million in its budget to initiate these payments. For the current fiscal year, the government has earmarked an additional $10 million.
The African Development Bank reports that at least 439 former landowners have been identified as beneficiaries of the financial settlement totalling $331 million.
Andrew Bvumbe, the head of debt management in the finance ministry, said that the government will continue to make payments to farmers who seek compensation.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

White farmers in Zimbabwe who lost their land are not getting the compensation they were promised by the government. The farmers are very upset and want to talk to the government about it. The government said it would pay the farmers to make things right, but it keeps missing deadlines. The government thinks taking the land was a good idea to make things fair, but now it's causing problems for the farmers. Only some of the farmers have gotten compensation so far, and the government is trying to make more payments. The farmers just want the government to keep its promise and pay them.

Zimbabwean Government Fails To Pay Agreed Compensation To White Farmers

The Mining Industry Pension Fund (MIPF) will compensate pensioners who lost their benefits during the hyperinflationary era between 2006 and 2009.
More than 33,000 people have not yet claimed their benefits; of those, about 10 pensioners are set to receive about US$100,000.
During the Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union’s Gwanda regional meeting held last week, MIPF Bulawayo branch manager Perseverance Dube said that those without benefits should visit MIPF offices. He said (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200034536/windfall-for-33k-pensioners-some-to-get-us100k-compensation">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
We are paying compensation for everyone who lost pension benefits between 2006 and 2009. If it means liquidating some of the MIPF assets to do that it will be done and some of the pensioners but just a few I think around 10 or less will be given US$100 000 or so, but they are few of them.
We are working on ensuring that those who lost benefits get compensated and we have around 33 000 people who have not claimed their benefits so far. If you know some of these people, just advise them to visit MIPF offices.
</blockquote>
In 2015, the late former President Robert Mugabe established a commission of inquiry to investigate the devaluation of life insurance policies and pensions following Zimbabwe’s shift to a multicurrency regime in 2009.
The Justice George Smith-led commission found that policyholders and pension scheme members were prejudiced during the conversion and recommended compensation.
In 2023, the government issued regulations to recognise the loss of value of pension products from January 1, 2000, to February 28, 2009, ensuring affected members are compensated.
Insurers and pension funds were instructed to submit compensation plans, including lists of eligible policyholders and compensation amounts, by December 31.
Last week’s Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union meeting aimed to adopt a strategic plan for building union power, securing jobs, and driving transformation.
Key strategies included fighting for the benefits and pensions of retired and retiring mine workers.
Dube said that, in addition to NSSA, the World Bank established industry-based occupational pension schemes. He said:
<blockquote>
In the mining industry, we have MIPF, in clothing, we have the Clothing Industry Pension Fund, in catering, we have the Catering Industry Pension Fund.
So the government also looked at that structure and said for each industry we are going to set up an industry-based pension scheme for every industry that looks at the needs of that particular industry and addresses them, but NSSA is for all of us.
</blockquote>
Dube said in addition to the 4.5% NSSA contribution, mine workers also contribute 7.5% to MIPF for occupational-based schemes.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Mining Industry Pension Fund is giving money to 33,000 pensioners who lost benefits from 2006-2009. Some may get $100,000. People who haven't claimed benefits should visit MIPF offices. In 2015, a commission found that pensioners were treated unfairly and recommended compensation. The government issued regulations in 2023 to ensure affected members are compensated. The meeting aimed to help retired miners get their benefits. Different industries have pension funds, like MIPF for mining. Mine workers contribute to MIPF for their pension.

Mining Pension Fund To Compensate 33,000 Pensioners

The Zimbabwean government says it will compensate local and foreign white farmers who lost land and property during the farm seizures around the year 2000.
Approximately 4,000 white farmers were affected by the land redistribution programme launched by then-president Robert Mugabe in 2000, which turned violent at times.
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced on Wednesday at a meeting with diplomats that the government approved $351.6 million for local white farmers and $196.6 million for foreign claimants, but only 1% of the compensation will be paid in cash.
The remaining compensation will be issued through treasury bonds.
The government has approved payments for 444 former commercial farm owners, compensating them for improvements made to the land before their eviction.
Foreign claimants from countries including Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Eastern Europe will share an initial $20 million. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
The government allocated $35 million in the 2024 budget for compensating former farm owners who are part of the Global Compensation Deed signed in 2020.
</blockquote>
The compensation for local farmers covers infrastructure such as buildings and irrigation equipment, not the land itself.
Foreigners covered under investment agreements will be compensated for both land and infrastructure.
The payments are expected in the last quarter of 2024.
The payments are vital in the southern African nation’s bid to win over creditors for the restructure of the $21 billion debt it owes, after defaulting in 1999.
The nation confirmed that it had hired advisers to help with the restructure, including Global Sovereign Advisory and Kelper-Karst, with support from the African Legal Support Facility.
In 2020, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government signed a compensation deal with white farmers, encouraging them to apply for new land.
All farmland is now government-owned and leased to occupants.
The government plans to allow beneficiaries of the reform to sell land only to “Indigenous Zimbabweans,” sparking criticism.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government of Zimbabwe is going to pay over 400 white farmers for improvements they made on their land before being evicted. The compensation includes cash and treasury bonds. These farmers lost their land during a violent redistribution program in 2000. Foreign farmers from countries like Denmark and Germany will also be compensated. This is part of Zimbabwe's plan to restructure its debt. All farmland is now owned by the government, and they will only allow Indigenous Zimbabweans to buy land in the future. Payments are expected in late 2024.

Zimbabwe To Compensate Over 400 Evicted White Farmers For Land Improvements

The Zimbabwean government will pay an initial US$20 million this month to foreign white and local Black farmers who lost land due to farm invasions under former leader Robert Mugabe, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube said on Friday, reported <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/zimbabwe-compensates-foreign-local-farmers-over-land-invasions-2024-10-04/">Reuters</a>.
This payment is part of the 2024 budget and aims to restore the country’s agricultural sector and support economic revival.
The collapse of agriculture began when Mugabe initiated the seizure of productive farms in 2000, impacting many white commercial farmers and some Black Zimbabweans.
Most of the farms were owned by Zimbabwean white commercial farmers after colonialists forcibly took them from Blacks early in the 20th century.
The compensation will include foreign farmers from Belgium, Germany, and other countries, as well as 400 Black Zimbabweans.
A separate much larger $3.5 billion compensation scheme for 4,000 white Zimbabwean farmers was announced in 2020, but funds have not been released due to Zimbabwe’s financial struggles.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is working to engage Western governments to restore relations, resolve foreign debt, and revive the economy, though last year’s elections raised concerns about donor confidence.
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube indicated that the dialogue process is ongoing and essential for clearing Zimbabwe’s debt arrears. He said:
<blockquote>
The dialogue process is working and will help us in clearing our arrears eventually.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is seeking an International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff-monitored program as a first step towards debt relief, with an IMF team scheduled to visit Harare in the next two weeks.
Zimbabwe’s total foreign debt stands at $12 billion, owed to various international financial institutions and private funders.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government of Zimbabwe will pay $20 million to farmers who lost land because of Robert Mugabe. This money is to help the agricultural sector and the economy. The farm seizures by Mugabe in 2000 affected white and Black farmers. The compensation includes foreign farmers and Black Zimbabweans. President Mnangagwa is working to improve international relations. Zimbabwe is trying to clear its $12 billion debt with help from the IMF. The dialogue process is ongoing to help with clearing the debt. This is good news for farmers who lost their land.

Government To Pay US$20 Million To Farmers Affected By Land Seizures

Zimbabwe will next month begin disbursing funds to compensate white former commercial farmers whose land was expropriated during the Fast-track Land Resettlement Programme at the turn of the millennium.
This announcement was made by Stéphane Rey, the Swiss ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi, during recent celebrations for Switzerland National Day. Said Rey (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200032701/zim-moves-to-compensate-former-farm-owners">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
I want to express my appreciation for the bold steps taken, particularly the effective compensation of farmers.
This historic development is not just about financial settlement; it’s about reconciliation and moving forward.
The initial disbursements will start being effective next month. Twenty-seven Swiss farms are directly impacted.
Seventeen of them have been validated and approved for compensation this week and the remaining 10 will be examined by the end of this week.
</blockquote>
The arrears clearance and debt resolution strategy is based on Zimbabwe’s commitment to pay US$3.5 billion to former farm owners, compensating those who lost their farms despite protections under the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. This strategy also includes implementing economic and governance reforms.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has developed financial tools to help raise the necessary $3.5 billion for compensation, aiming to leverage capital markets and prevent further deterioration of Zimbabwe’s debt situation.
In 2020, Zimbabwe agreed to compensate local white farmers whose land was expropriated by the government from 2000 onwards as part of efforts to resettle black families.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe will start giving money to white farmers who lost their land during a land reform program. Switzerland is helping with this. 27 Swiss farms are affected. 17 will get money soon, and the rest will be looked at soon. Zimbabwe wants to pay $3.5 billion to compensate all the farmers. The African Development Bank is helping get the money. This is part of a plan to fix the country's debt and help move forward. Zimbabwe also agreed to compensate local white farmers in 2020 who lost their land in the past.

Zimbabwe Moves To Compensate White Farmers Affected By Land Reform

The Harare Magistrates Court has ordered Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe and Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri to fork out about US$30,000 in damages to compensate Felix Mafondokoto, a victim of army brutality.
According to the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), Mafondokoto was shot by a soldier during a clampdown on anti-government protests held five years ago. The ZLHR said:
<blockquote>
Mafondokoto, a 43-year-old resident of Chitungwiza, was shot by ZNA members on 19 January 2019, when soldiers were dispersing people during a clampdown on anti-government protests, which gripped the country as people protested against an arbitrary hike in fuel prices and the agonising economic crisis blamed on President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.
While Mafondokoto was not participating in the protests, he ended up being admitted in hospital after sustaining injuries from being shot at by a ZNA member.
The Chitungwiza resident, who suffered severe injuries from the shooting and still has some bullet fragments in his body, engaged Kossam Ncube of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, who assisted him in suing Sanyatwe and Hon. Muchinguri and demanded to be paid US$49 000 in damages for the violation of his fundamental rights.
In the summons filed at Harare Civil Magistrates Court, Mafondokoto asked the court to order Sanyatwe and Hon. Muchinguri to compensate him for the pain and suffering he endured, nervous shock, loss of earnings and for the medical expenses, which he incurred as he got hospitalised for treatment.
On Monday 20 May 2024, after presiding over a full trial in which Lieutenant Colonel Whatmore Ziweni, the ZNA Operations Chief, testified on behalf of Sanyatwe and Muchinguri, Harare Magistrate Mandlenkosi Ndhlovu ordered the duo to pay US$29 182 to Mafondokoto as compensation for the damages, which he suffered from the brutality perpetrated by soldiers.
</blockquote>
Magistrate Ndhlovu ruled that Mafondokoto suffered severe injuries and endured excruciating pain and suffering and had to undergo various operation procedures.
Magistrate Ndhlovu stated that Mafondokoto now struggles to work for extended periods because of the injuries, he sustained which now impact his livelihood.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chitungwiza Man Shot By Soldiers Gets US$30 000 In Compensation

The families of three learners from Penhalonga, who tragically lost their lives in a road traffic accident along Christmas-Pass-Shamu Road last week, have put forth compensation requests.
These requests include US$24,000 and 28 head of cattle. Additionally, by their cultural practices, the families have also requested four goats and two cocks.
According to <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/crash-victims-families-demand-28-cattle-us24-000/">The Manica Post</a>, the demands were made before the burial of the minors.
Sylvian (13) and Strive Maponde (nine) as well as Blessing Chisare (nine) were knocked down by an alleged speeding Toyota Fortuner that was being driven by John Dumbura.
The siblings were buried at their rural home in Marange on Friday last week, while Chisare (nine) was interred at Tsvingwe Cemetery in Penhalonga last Saturday.
John Dumbura was expected to appear in court facing culpable homicide charges.
Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s acting spokesperson in Manicaland Province, said the matter will be taken to court once all relevant information, including the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) report, is availed. He said:
<blockquote>
Police are still working on the docket, and as we speak, the post-mortem results are already in, but we are still waiting for the VID report.
The matter will be taken to court once all the relevant information has been processed.
</blockquote>
The Maponde family’s demands for reparation were reportedly handed over to John’s uncle, Shellington Dumbura. The agreement reads:
<blockquote>
On the death of Gift Maponde’s two children, we agreed on March 13, 2024 that: (1) for each of the deceased child, the perpetrator pays 14 cattle, and that means it should add up to 28 cattle for the two children. For each child, they also pay US$5 000: that means 28 cattle and US$10 000 as well as four goats and two cocks.
</blockquote>
The Chisare family also entered into a similar agreement with the Dumburas and it reads:
<blockquote>
For Blessing’s death, we have agreed that Mr Dumbura pays US$ 14,000. Today, he paid US$1 000, leaving a balance of US$13 000.
</blockquote>
Dumbura confirmed that he had reached an agreement with the families of the deceased when contacted by The Manica Post on Tuesday. He said:
<blockquote>
I did not argue with them. We accepted what they were demanding. Every place has its traditions, so we just follow what they say.
While we were in Bocha (Marange) where the two siblings were buried, the traditional leader pointed out that they (Mapondes) had charged more than what they were traditionally supposed to.
Their culture stipulates that they should charge seven cattle per child to make them 14 for the two.
The chief also wants three beasts for each child killed, making them six, and a total of 20.
</blockquote>
Chief Mutasa said normally, reparations are not paid before the deceased manifests in an avenging spirit, stating what he or she wants.
He added that the demands for money and cattle made by the bereaved family were pure “madness and unlawful”. He said:
<blockquote>
Normally, reparations are not paid before the deceased manifests in an avenging spirit, spelling out what he or she wants.
What we do in our area is that when an accident happens or when one is killed in such a way, the perpetrator meets all the funeral expenses; that is the transport, food and coffins.
We bury the deceased and then wait for the deceased’s spirit to manifest and make its demands known.
You cannot say when someone has died today, you wake up the next day demanding reparation. That is madness; it is unlawful.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Government, through the Department of Civil Protection (DCP), availed the three coffins and hearses to facilitate the burial of the three children and also provided grain.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Families Of Schoolchildren Killed By Speeding Vehicle Demand 28 Cattle, US$24 000

A Masvingo magistrate has ordered four police officers, Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga and Home Affairs, Cultural and Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe to pay a Zaka woman Theresa Khosana, US$2 500 in damages as compensation for torture.
Masvingo Magistrate Isaac Chikura made the ruling following the intervention of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR).
According to the ZLHR, Khosana was tortured by the police officers as they tried to force her to disclose the whereabouts of her son, Byron Chedimbwa, who had reportedly defaulted on completing a community service sentence.
Chedimbwa had been convicted of theft of a mobile phone handset and sentenced to serve community service. The ZLHR said:
<blockquote>
We have succeeded in getting some ZRP officers to account for their misdemeanours after we got a ruling in which 4 officers have been ordered to pay US$2 500 in damages as compensation for severely torturing Theresa Khosana, a 40-year-old woman from Zaka in Masvingo.
Through our anti-impunity litigation, we have ensured that the wayward conduct of some ZRP officers has been put under check to prevent immunity and arbitrariness.
In this regard, Masvingo Magistrate Isaac Chikura, has ordered 4 police officers, Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga and Home Affairs, Cultural and Heritage Minister Hon. Kazembe to pay US$2 500 as compensation for damages for the maltreatment and brutality, which Khosana suffered while in police custody.
In his ruling, Magistrate Chikura stated that the order against the ZRP officers identified as Constable Mavis Sibanda, Constable John Njaya, Constable Mushonga and another unidentified law enforcement agent, who are stationed at Chivamba Police Base in Zaka in Masvingo province, is an “an exemplary award, which will meet the justices of the case.”
He ruled that ZRP officers who testified during the civil trial of the offending law enforcement agents, appeared to have been numb as to the depths of harm their conduct had on Khosana and stated that when the law enforcement agents were testifying, they were trying to avoid accountability for their actions.
Khosana was assisted by Martin Mureri and Peggy Tavagadza of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, to sue the ZRP officers after they tortured her as they coerced her to reveal the whereabouts of her son.
The 4 ZRP officers raided the homestead of Khosana on 6 May 2023 intending to arrest her 20 year-old son Byron Chedimbwa, who had reportedly defaulted on completing a community service sentence.
Khosana advised the ZRP officers that her son, who was convicted of theft of a mobile phone handset and sentenced to serve community service, was not at home and was not at home and had travelled to Chiredzi. 
Constable Sibanda, Constable Njaya, Constable Mushonga and their unidentified colleague, then sought to coerce Khosana to disclose the whereabouts of her son by arresting her and handcuffing her before detaining her at Chivamba Police Base.
On the way to Chivamba Police Base, Khosana was threatened with assault and untold suffering by the ZRP officers including being advised by Constable Sibanda that she would be taken to a dam to be immersed in water so that she could confess and reveal the whereabouts of Chedimbwa.
However, Constable Sibanda’s colleagues decided that instead of taking Khosana to a dam, they should use a bucket to pour water on her to humiliate her and force her to disclose where her son was.
While at Chivamba Police Base, the ZRP officers handcuffed her to a table and poured cold water on her.
Khosana spent the whole night while drenched with water and shackled to a table and was only released in the morning of 7 May 2023 without a charge being preferred against her.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Four Cops Ordered To Pay US$2 500 To Victim Of Police Brutality

ZESA Holdings recently paid over US$19 000 to a teenager who was severely injured after he came into contact with exposed live cables that the power utility had failed to secure or remove.
Denzel Maulani (13) was injured by an electric shock after coming into contact with exposed live cables in Penhalonga.
He was represented by Messers Kevin Kabaya and Tatenda Sigauke from Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR).
The matter was set to appear before the Mutare High Court, but both parties opted for an out-of-court settlement.
ZESA undertook to fork out an equivalent of US$19 000 in Zimbabwe dollars to the teenager’s family.
Denzel’s mother Suwonani Mushanya, told <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/zesa-compensates-electrocuted-teen-with-us19-000/">The Manica Post</a> that her son was nine-years-old when the accident occurred.
He battled for his life for two months while admitted at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital.
Denzel was playing on a tree when he accidentally came into contact with the exposed electricity cable as he climbed down the tree.
As a result of the electric shock, he lost the function of his right hand and also suffered injuries on both feet. His mother said:
<blockquote>
We are grateful that ZESA Holdings owned up to their mistake and compensated us. With the money, we can now buy comfortable shoes for him as he no longer wears ordinary shoes due to the injuries he sustained.
</blockquote>
In a statement released recently, ZLHR said Denzel sustained severe electrical burns due to gross negligence by ZESA. It said:
<blockquote>
The 13-year-old minor was left nursing extensive injuries on his right upper limbs, including permanent and irreversible injuries which he suffered due to electrocution in April 2019. Medical doctors estimated his impairment percentage at 20 percent.
The minor was electrocuted by exposed electricity cables which were left hanging dangerously low and within reach of people at his parent’s residence in Penhalonga.
</blockquote>
The lawyers said ZESA’s power distribution unit, the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), through its insurers, Cell Insurance, shared proof of payment with them. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
The proof showed that ZETDC had deposited ZWL$92 679 793, which is equivalent to US$19 658, into the bank account of the minor’s parents after it accepted the child’s claim and liability for the damages that he suffered from the electrocution.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Electrocuted Teen Receives US$19 000 Compensation From ZESA

White farmers who lost their land during Zimbabwe’s chaotic land redistribution exercise have made some changes to the government’s proposal of paying the US$3.5 billion compensation through a 10-year commercial paper.
The former farmers rejected the proposal and have made some changes to suit the age profile of the supposed beneficiaries.
Speaking to <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/ex-farmers-turn-heat-on-govt/">Business Times</a> on Wednesday, Commercial Farmers Union (CFU) president Andrew Pascoe said they are currently engaging members to get their views on the Government proposal. Said Pascoe:
<blockquote>
We made some new changes to the government’s proposed deal and currently, we are carrying out surveys with our members to see if they agree to the new proposals.
</blockquote>
In 2020, the Government pledged to compensate the former farm owners in phases.
The first installment of US$1.75 billion was supposed to be paid in 2021 and the balance was to be paid in four equal installments of US$437.5 million per year.
The Government failed to fulfill the promise to the formers farmers and has shifted goalposts on several occasions.
Moreover, critics argue that the compensation does not go far enough to address the harm caused by the land reform programme.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

White Former Farmers Scrutinize Compensation Deal

Zimbabwean white former farmers have rejected the Government’s new compensation proposal of paying in government securities over a 10–year period.
When the agreement was signed in 2020, the government initially wanted to offer payment terms of 20 years but has since decided to expedite the process.
A source privy to the information told <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/ex-farmers-reject-govt-deal/">Business Times</a> that the former farm owners want urgent cash payment as most of them are now in their 80s. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Ex-farmers have rejected the Treasury Bonds as they need cash payments with much shorter periods which allow them time to plan with their money due to their age profiles which are between the 80s and 90s.
For that reason, they are not taking any deal which does not include cash in the shortest possible time.
</blockquote>
In February this year, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube, said the compensation will be financed through a Treasury bond, which will have prescribed-asset status and not be liable to any form of taxation as a way to entice investors.
He said farmers will hold a referendum on the matter soon and the bond will be issued once outstanding details are finalised.
Finance and Economic Development deputy minister Clemence Chiduwa told <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/ex-farmers-reject-govt-deal/">Business Times</a> that engagements between the parties are continuing. He said:
<blockquote>
At the moment, I am not aware of this position but what I know is that there were some engagements this week and an agreed position will be reached soon as both parties continue to engage to find common ground for compensation to take place.
</blockquote>
Business Times said they could not get a comment from Commercial Farmers Union president Andrew Pascoe as his mobile number went unanswered.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Commercial Farmers Reject Revised Govt Deal

Zimbabwean white farmers whose land was expropriated without compensation by the government at the turn of the Millenium say if they reject the new compensation deals, they may lose the little they have been getting.
In 2020, the government signed an agreement with the former farmers where it undertook to pay US$3.5 as compensation over a 20-year period for improvements that were done on the farms.
The government recently offered to settle the US$3.5 billion land compensation deal with white former farmers over 10 years instead of 20 years.
Since the signing of the original deal, the government has repeatedly missed repayment deadlines.
According to <a href="https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/white-zimbabwe-farmers-reject-3-5-billion-dollar-deal/">SABC News</a>, the chairperson of the Southern African Agriculture Initiative, Theo De Jager said what they have been getting from the Zimbabwean government is not enough and they will lose the little they have been getting if they reject the deals. He said:
<blockquote>
There is nothing to hide here, for the farmers, they want to put their case when this global compensation deed was signed one of the issues was a few hundred farmers destitute and we have nothing and they don’t know how they will afford their medical bills at the end of the month.
The Zimbabwean government gave us a few dollars each month but it’s not enough and we never know when they will pay us, and if we don’t accept their new deals, the government would stop paying us.
</blockquote>
The legal representative of the Zimbabwean farmers, Willie Spies said they want fair compensation and will seek recourse at South African courts. Said Spies:
<blockquote>
We decided to carry on with an edict claim against the SA government on behalf of the farmers we represent, in the first half of 2019.
We issued 56 summons against the SA government and President Cyril Ramaphosa for a …. claim for the damages suffered by Zimbabwean farmers as a result of the deprivation of their rights, the ConCourt is currently tasked with this matter.
</blockquote>
The farmers argue that their land claim is worth more than US$10 billion.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

White Former Farmers Reject US$3.5 Billion Compensation Deal

The Government has offered to settle a US$3.5 billion land compensation deal with white former farmers over 10 years.
When the agreement was signed in 2020, the government initially wanted to offer payment terms of 20 years but has since decided to expedite the process, reported <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-02-23/zimbabwe-offers-new-terms-for-3-5-billion-white-farmer-deal#xj4y7vzkg">Bloomberg</a>.
Since the signing of the deal, the government has repeatedly missed repayment deadlines.
Addressing reporters on Thursday on the sidelines of a meeting in the capital, Harare, to discuss the country’s debt, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube, said:
<blockquote>
We are moving toward the quick payment of former farm owners as most of them are not young. We are now front-loading the payments.
</blockquote>
Ncube said the compensation will be financed through a Treasury bond, which will have prescribed-asset status and not be liable to any form of taxation as a way to entice investors.
He said farmers will hold a referendum on the matter soon and the bond will be issued once outstanding details are finalised.

Govt Offers New Terms For US$3.5 Billion Deal With White Former Farmers

The Government has offered to settle a US$3.5 billion land compensation deal with white former farmers over 10 years.
When the agreement was signed in 2020, the government initially wanted to offer payment terms of 20 years but has since decided to expedite the process, reported <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-02-23/zimbabwe-offers-new-terms-for-3-5-billion-white-farmer-deal#xj4y7vzkg">Bloomberg</a>.
Since the signing of the deal, the government has repeatedly missed repayment deadlines.
Addressing reporters on Thursday on the sidelines of a meeting in the capital, Harare, to discuss the country’s debt, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube, said:
<blockquote>
We are moving toward the quick payment of former farm owners as most of them are not young. We are now front-loading the payments.
</blockquote>
Ncube said the compensation will be financed through a Treasury bond, which will have prescribed-asset status and not be liable to any form of taxation as a way to entice investors.
He said farmers will hold a referendum on the matter soon and the bond will be issued once outstanding details are finalised.

The family of a Bulawayo man who was shot dead by a senior police officer on 01 January 2007 has revived its quest for justice.
The victim, Artwell Magagada, was employed as a cashier at Chicken Inn along Leopold Takawira Avenue and had just knocked off from work on the day he was shot by Superintendent Milos Moyo.
Superintendent Moyo, then the officer commanding police camps in Bulawayo and stationed at ZRP Stops Camp, was charged with culpable homicide following the fatal shooting.
His trial started three years later in 2010. He pleaded not guilty to the murder of Artwell before Bulawayo High Court judge Justice Nicholas Mathonsi.
Artwell’s brother, Charles Magagada on Wednesday told Sunday <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local-news/article/200007335/police-shooting-victims-family-seeks-justice">Southern Eye</a> that the family was not happy with the way his brother’s case was handled by authorities. He said:
<blockquote>
He was tragically shot dead and we received no apology from the accused, who was even found guilty by our courts.
To add salt to the wound, the top cop was fined US$500 sometime in 2010 and we got nothing.
While we believe he had no intention to kill my brother, just a word of apology could have gone a long way in appeasing us but absolutely no apology came.
Secondly, we thought government, since he’s their employee who caused the death of our departed brother, would institute some compensation, but there was no concern on their part.
As a family, we want justice for our brother.
</blockquote>
Prosecutors said on 1 January 2007, Supt Moyo discharged his service firearm at a crowd of revellers who were celebrating New Year’s Day at Chicken Inn.
One of the bullets from Moyo’s Smith and Wesson CZ pistol allegedly hit Magagada in the head.
Magagada died after spending four days on a life support system at Mater Dei Hospital, with the bullet still lodged in his head.
In his defence, Moyo, who was represented by Tanaka Muganyi, denied the possibility of his gunshots having injured Artwell.
He claimed that the deceased was not in his line of fire, adding that his gunshots were aimed at the wheels of a South African Isuzu truck.
Moyo alleged that he observed the driver of the truck pulling out a black pistol and cocking it.
In 2008, the Magagada family with the help of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights sued then Home Affairs minister Kembo Mohadi and Police Commissioner-General Augustine Chihuri over Artwell’s death.
The Magagada family was demanding ZWL$$20 billion in damages, but the case collapsed.

Family Of Chicken Inn Cashier Shot Dead By Top Cop Seeks Justice

Human rights lawyers have filed an application at the Harare High Court seeking an order to get Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga to be jailed 30 days for willfully reneging on the order to compensate Pardon Chitongo, a victim of police brutality.
Chitongo was shot and permanently disabled by anti-riot police officers during the January 2019 anti-government protests as he stood outside his uncle’s home in Epworth.
In 2022, Kazembe and Matanga were ordered to pay Chitongo ZWL$3.7 million but have not done so.
Now wheelchair-bound, Chitongo is relying on expensive painkillers to ease pain in his body.
He is being represented by the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR)’s Paidamoyo Saurombe and Fiona Iliff. ZLHR said:
<blockquote>
Kazembe and Godwin Matanga were on 3 August 2022 ordered by High Court Judge Justice Gladys Mhuri to pay ZW$3,7 million to Chitongo as damages after he was shot by ZRP officers on 14 January 2019.
Chitongo was shot by ZRP officers while he was standing outside his uncle’s house when police officers recklessly and indiscriminately started shooting towards him, ostensibly to target some protestors during an anti-government demonstration.
He had not been protesting, was simply caught in the crossfire and was hit by a bullet that pierced through his arm, penetrated through his body, came out on the other side of his body, and hit the other arm.
As a result of the grave nature of his injuries, Chitongo had to undergo an operation to remove one of his kidneys after he suffered permanent damage to his spinal cord.
The two have reneged on paying damages and this forced Chitongo to file an application seeking an order to hold the duo to be in contempt of court and that they are sentenced to 30 days in prison for defaulting on paying the judgment debt.
</blockquote>
Riots broke out across the country in January 2019 as citizens protested against a fuel price hike and general hardships.
Security services responded with brute force, with 12 people reportedly killed while hundreds were tortured and injured. | <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/kazembe-matanga-face-jail-for-ignoring-high-court-order-to-compensate-epworth-man-shot-by-zrp-officers/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Kazembe, Matanga Fail To Pay $3.7 Million To Epworth Man Shot By Cops In 2019

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), a subsidiary of ZESA Holdings has reportedly agreed to pay US$15 000 as compensation for damages to a minor child who was electrocuted in April 2019.
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) said the juvenile was electrocuted and sustained severe electrical burns due to gross negligence by ZETDC. Said ZLHR:
<blockquote>
The 13-year-old minor child was left nursing extensive injuries to his right upper limbs including permanent and irreversible injuries, which he suffered due to electrocution in April 2019 while medical doctors estimated his impairment percentage at 20%.
</blockquote>
On 16 September 2022, ZLHR’s Kelvin Kabaya wrote a letter of demand to ZETDC on behalf of the minor’s parents demanding payment amounting to US$15 000 as compensation for damages suffered by the 13-year-old child. The human rights lawyers said:
<blockquote>
The minor child was electrocuted by some exposed electricity cables, which were left hanging dangerously low and within reach of people at his parents’ residence in Penhalonga in Manicaland province. As a result of the accident, the child suffered severe electrical burns.
Kabaya told ZETDC that it was to blame for the unfortunate accident, which was caused by negligence on the part of its employees, who negligently left exposed electrical cables thereby endangering vulnerable children.
</blockquote>
ZLHR added that ZETDC has, through its insurer, Cell Insurance, recently advised Kabaya that it had accepted the minor child’s claim and would pay him US$15 000 as compensation for the damages which he suffered from the electrocution.

ZESA Agrees To Pay US$15 000 In Compensation To Electrocution Victim

Ex-Wenela workers will start receiving payments ranging from R10 000 to R50 000 per individual in compensation early next year.
This was said by a Tshiamiso Trust delegation that was sent to Zimbabwe last week.
Tshiamiso Trust was set up after ex-Wenela workers won a class-action lawsuit in the South African High Court in July 2019 to handle the compensation process.
Tshiamiso Trust chief operating officer Tina da Cruz told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/ex-wenela-payments-set-for-early-next-year">The Sunday Mail</a> that each beneficiary will be paid depending on the level at which he or she had suffered from respiratory diseases. Said, Cruz:
<blockquote>
We are delighted to be here for a positive engagement with the Government of Zimbabwe and other stakeholders.
We managed to develop a roadmap that we look forward to implementing. We are expecting that shortly, within the early next calendar year, it will be fully operationalised and will be receiving applications and processing the claims of deserving claimants.
</blockquote>
The Trust said that it is considering workers who were employed by African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American South Africa, AngloGold Ashanti, Gold Fields, Harmony Gold and Sibanye-Stillwater.
The compensation is applicable to employees who carried out risky work at the mines between March 12, 1965 and December 10, 2019, and were diagnosed with silicosis before December 2021.
Workers who contracted tuberculosis while working at the mines, or within a year of leaving the mines are also entitled to receive compensation.
Tshiamiso Trust has paid over R930 million to more than 10 000 claims from ex-workers.
Zimbabwe’s Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Permanent Secretary Simon Masanga said:
<blockquote>
We have a database of at least 4 000 ex-Wenela mine workers who will be subject to vetting before receiving compensation.
The Government is going to set up an online registration platform, which will enable all ex-Wenela workers to register.
As Government, we are now appealing to all these ex-workers wherever they are to start compiling all the necessary documents to prove that they worked for these companies.
Affidavits are not considered as evidence in this process. Contractual documents, if they are present, will be crucial.
A mobile clinic will be available to carry out tests that will ascertain who will be benefiting.
</blockquote>
Ex-Wenela Miners Association of Zimbabwe national spokesperson Newman Machinga said:
<blockquote>
As an association, we are pleased with the development. We hope everyone who is entitled to the payments is going to benefit. We have been pushing for a long time to achieve this.
</blockquote>
Ex-Wenela Miners Association of Zimbabwe chairman Rodgers Munakamwe said:
<blockquote>
We have spent the last 42 years trying to track down unpaid pension dues deducted from their wages without their knowledge and consent.
Painful memories of labour injustices perpetrated against them are still fresh in their minds and a majority of the ex-miners contracted chronic diseases in the South African mines.
It’s sad that 25 percent of the ex-miners lost their lives due to a lack of money to seek medical attention.
</blockquote>

"Payments For Ex-Wenela Workers Set For Early 2023"

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe and a police officer only identified as Mabika have been ordered by the court to pay ZWL$800 000 to a Mbare resident who was arrested by the police in 2021.
According to the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), Tinashe Maumbe (24), a resident of Mbare, was arrested together with his friends Reward Majoni and Tinashe Majoni by ZRP officers on 16 January 2021.
The trio was walking past Matapi Police Station in Harare’s Mbare high-density suburb when the law enforcement agents manning the entrance to the police station enquired where the trio was going.
The ZRP officers allegedly accused Maumbe and his friends of being homosexuals and told them that homosexuality is not permitted in Zimbabwe.
The trio was subsequently detained by the police and no charges were preferred against them. In fact, they were jeered by cops and were only released after ZLHR lawyers intervened.
With the help of Tinashe Chinopfukutwa of ZLHR, Maumbe sued Matanga, Kazembe and Mabika by filing a summons in April 2021 at Harare Civil Magistrates Courts.
Maumbe demanded payment amounting to ZWL$900 000 as damages for unlawful arrest, detention, humiliation and embarrassment. Said ZLHR:
<blockquote>
On 4 November 2022 and after presiding over the trial of Hon. Kazembe, Matanga and Mabika, Harare Magistrate Ayanda Dhlamini granted judgment in favour of Maumbe and ordered Matanga, Kazembe and Mabika to pay him ZWL800 000 as compensation for violation of his rights after ruling that ZRP officers had “hysterically” arrested the 24-year-old Mbare resident based on their personal opinion of members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, queer and questioning people.
Out of the ZWL800 000, ZWL$400 000 is for damages for unlawful arrest and detention while ZWL$400 000 is compensation for inhuman and degrading treatment.
Magistrate Dhlamini further ruled that the police officers, who arrested Maumbe, were not even aware of the COVID-19 provisions, which they purported to have cited upon apprehending him.
The Magistrate concluded that Maumbe’s arrest and detention was unlawful and that the police officers had jeered at him and insulted him for allegedly being a homosexual and by so doing, violated his right to human dignity guaranteed in terms of provisions of section 51 of the Constitution.
</blockquote>

ZRP Ordered To Pay $800k To Mbare Resident Arrested And Accused Of Being Homosexual By Cops

The government says it will establish a fund that will be used to compensate people who will have been attacked by wild animals.
The Human-Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund for Victims in Zimbabwe will cover death, maiming, and injuries.
Addressing reporters following a cabinet meeting in Harare on Tuesday, Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa attributed cases of human-wildlife conflict to competition for limited resources between humans and animals. She said:
This year alone, as of August 2022, 46 Zimbabwean lives have been lost to human-wildlife conflict.
<blockquote>
With the most affected being Mashonaland West where 19 people were killed, mostly in Kariba.
Regionally, Zimbabwe has the highest number of deaths from human-wildlife conflict.
Accordingly, the government has adopted the establishment of a relief fund to cushion the victims of human-wildlife conflict by way of funeral assistance and an amount paid towards hospitalisation and treatment with a set limit.
The payments will cover three categories, namely death, maiming and injuries. A specialised human-wildlife conflict unit will be established under the department of parks and wildlife.
Mutsvangwa said in 1980, Zimbabwe had an elephant population of 50,000, while the human population was 7.4 million.
</blockquote>
The elephant population has grown to more than 85,000 and the human population has more than doubled to 15 million. Said Mutsvangwa:
<blockquote>
The consequent competition for limited resources often results in wildlife attacks on humans, especially in communal areas and towns that are close to national parks, safaris, forests and other protected areas.
Consequently, people living adjacent to wildlife areas are always in danger of being attacked by animals, and it has been established that the frequency of such attacks is increasing.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa said the fund shall be self-financing, with proceeds expected to come from hunting revenues. | <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/11/wildlife-victims-to-be-compensated-under-human-wildlife-conflict-fund/">ZimLive</a>

Wildlife Victims To Be Compensated From Special Fund

A teenager from Chitungwiza has sued ZRP Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga and Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage minister Kazembe Kazembe for damages amounting to US$15 000 after he was shot and injured by police officers who were pursuing a robbery suspect.
Tashinga Mugwara (19) was accidentally shot at a fuel station at Taita Shops in Chitungwiza by police officers on 27 June.
The bullet went through his lower body, resulting in his suffering severe abdominal injuries.
Mugwara’s lawyer, Tinashe Chinopfukutwa from the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) submitted:
<blockquote>
Mugwara will potentially suffer from adhesive bowel obstruction in future as a result of the injuries he sustained owing to the unwarranted shooting by ZRP officers.
… Mugwara was unarmed and had not threatened the law enforcement agents in any way which justified their resort to severe force.
Chinopfukutwa said Mugwara suffered damages amounting to US$5 000 for pain and suffering, US$5 000 for contumelia and affront to dignity as well as US$5 000 for future medical expenses.
</blockquote>
Mugwara is also claiming payment of US$183 and $24 351 for medical expenses which he incurred following the shooting. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/local-news/article/200002070/police-shooting-victim-sues-matanga">The Standard</a>

Police Shooting Victim Demands US$15 000 Compensation

Some white former farmers who lost land during Zimbabwe’s fast-track land resettlement programme have criticised the Commercial Farmers Union (CFU) leadership for allegedly failing to be firm during their engagements with the government.
<a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/divisions-rock-ex-farmers/">Business Times</a> reported sources as saying aggrieved farmers accuse CFU leadership of being “too weak” to deal with the issues at hand.
The farmers suspect that the leadership may have been persuaded by the government into accepting compensation outside the agreed timeline of 5 years.
Two years ago, the government tabled a US$3.5 billion offer to the former farmers.
But four months ago, the government gave the former farmers four months to decide on a 20-year bond that would see the government paying US$70 million per year as compensation for their assets expropriated during the land reform exercise.
An aggrieved former farmer who spoke to Business Times said CFU leadership accepts “everything” tabled by the government. Said the former farmer:
<blockquote>
We are saying we don’t want the bonds as they take time to recoup our money but the leadership is taking time to tell the government that we don’t want them.
Why do we have to wait for December to tell the authorities that bonds are not viable given our age?
The problem is that some of our leaders still have pieces of land which they were removed from and they don’t share the same pain we have.
</blockquote>
The CFU president Andrew Pascoe is reportedly still farming at his Ivordale Farm located 45km East of Harare along Nyamapanda road.
Recently, former CFU president Charles Tuffs urged the former farmers to exercise patience and “give the government a chance”.

Divisions Rock Former Farmers | Report

Government officials in Matabeleland North Province are considering establishing some form of compensatory system for villagers who are losing their livelihoods to wild animals, especially communities that live close to the Hwange National Park.
Wild animals, among them elephants, lions and buffaloes, encroach into surrounding villages in search of food and water and end up attacking people.
In 2021 alone, more than 80 people were trampled to death by elephants.
This was revealed by Godfrey Mukwakwami, Matabeleland North Director for Economic Development while speaking to the United Nations (UN) Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator to Zimbabwe, Edward Kallon who had paid a courtesy call to the province. Said Mukwakwami:
<blockquote>
We are having problems at Hwange National Park because of climate change. 
There is insufficient water and food within the conservancies and animals are now straying into human settlements.
We are having many problems and that has led to human-wildlife conflict, as the animals are also destroying villagers’ crops.
We are trying to come up with some form of a compensatory system whereby the affected villagers, most of whom are of a lower income, can be compensated.
We will be glad to have some technical assistance from your organisation as to how that can be addressed.
As you are aware, wild animal herds are controlled by conventions, we just cannot dispose of them. There are a lot of laws which protect those animals.
There might be a need to have some study of some sort to see what can be done to address the human and wildlife conflict happening in those areas adjacent to Hwange National Park.
</blockquote>
In response, the UN resident coordinator acknowledged he was aware of the human and wildlife conflict after it was brought to his attention when he visited Hwange National Park.
He said he would look at how UN systems could assist, adding that “something needs to be done definitely.”
More: <a href="https://cite.org.zw/govt-mulling-compensation-for-villagers-affected-by-wildlife/">CITE</a>

Govt Mulling Compensation For Victims Of Human-Wildlife Conflict

The government says some financiers are coming on board to help it honour its promise to pay US$3.5 billion to former commercial white farmers whose assets were expropriated during the land reform programme.
At least 4 000 white farmers were left landless after the government compulsorily acquired their farms during the land redistribution programme in the early 2000s.
Of the US$3.5 billion, the government is supposed to pay US$1.75bn at the end of this month.
The balance would be paid in instalments of US$437.5m per year for the next four years.
Speaking to Business Times, Foreign Affairs and International Trade deputy minister David Musabayana said:
<blockquote>
There are some other players that are coming on board to help us compensate the farmers and there are other bonds that we are processing to raise money to pay out farmers.
We have started paying off the distressed farmers like the elderly and the sick and there are some budgets that were approved for the payments of farmers.
</blockquote>
Commercial Farmers Union president Andrew Pascoe said:
<blockquote>
We are carrying out a number of meetings with the government to map the way forward but so far nothing concrete has been agreed upon.
We are yet to reach any agreements and we will go back to our members after a week or two.
</blockquote>
In 2021, the government paid US$1 million to former commercial farmers but commentators described the amount as too little since a total of US$3.5 billion should be paid within the next four years.
More: <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/govt-gets-funding-for-former-farmers/">Business Times</a>

Govt Gets Funding For White Former Farmers

The government is considering borrowing money directly from private investors to fund the first half of a $3.5 billion compensation agreement with white farmers whose land was seized for redistribution to blacks two decades ago.
Government, which last month appointed London-based Newstate Partners to help raise the money, needs to secure $1.75 billion by July next year to meet its obligations.
While the government is likely to press ahead with publicly stated plans to sell an international bond to finance the compensation accord, that option probably won’t be viable, said the source who asked not to be identified as the information hasn’t been disclosed publicly, Bloomberg reported.
A bond is deemed too expensive and in any case, will need a guarantee from a multilateral lender.
That’s unlikely to be forthcoming as Zimbabwe hasn’t paid its arrears on more than $8 billion in debt, meaning it can’t borrow fresh capital from them.
If money is raised from private investors, a special-purpose vehicle (SPV) could be set up offshore and a portion of the country’s tax or royalty earnings from mineral exports could be diverted into it to repay them over a number of years with interest, the Bloomberg source said.
The SPV could also be used as a guarantee to bolster the confidence of potential lenders, the source added.
Zimbabwe’s main exports include platinum-group metals, gold and tobacco.
Efforts by the publication to get a comment from Finance minister Mthuli Ncube and permanent secretary George Guvamatanga were fruitless as they didn’t respond to calls and text messages seeking comment.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/08/zim-may-borrow-to-pay-evicted-white-farmers/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Govt May Borrow To Pay Evicted White Farmers

Zimbabwe has started engaging South Africa to facilitate the compensation of Zimbabweans who contracted respiratory diseases while working in South Africa’s gold mines under the Witwatersrand Native Labour Association (WENELA).
Mineworkers who were exposed to harmful substances and contracted lung diseases at the South African gold mines are set to receive compensation worth R10 000 to R500 000.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima told State media that Zimbabwe and South Africa have activated an agreement made under the two countries’ Bi-National Commission to establish a Joint Taskforce to facilitate payment of the compensation.
Beneficiaries of the payments are obliged to be tested for respiratory diseases, with 400 prospective beneficiaries having been tested in Bulawayo to date. Said Minister Mavima:
<blockquote>The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the National Social Security Authority is conducting medical examinations and registration of potential beneficiaries for Compensation for Pneumoconiosis to facilitate claims for compensation through the Tshiamiso Trust which was established to process the claims.
The initial phase has targeted three provinces, Harare, Bulawayo and Masvingo. Around 400 ex-miners and their dependents have been registered in Bulawayo through the medical surveillance programme.
The rest of the provinces will be completed with lessons learnt from the initial phase.</blockquote>
Ex-Wenela Miners Association of Zimbabwe president Lungelwe Mkhwananzi implored other potential beneficiaries to undergo the tests.
The Johannesburg High Court in 2019 ruled that workers who contracted either Silicosis or Tuberculosis will get compensated upon receiving the diagnosis.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/ex-wenela-workers-government-steps-in/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Sunday News</a></h4>

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