President Mnangagwa’s ambitious title deeds programme has seen a significant uptick, with 18,000 title deeds issued in Epworth this month alone. The initiative aims to formalize property rights for homeowners residing in previously informal settlements across the country.
Under this programme, the government plans to issue over 1.5 million title deeds by the end of the year. Initial phases are already underway in key areas such as Chitungwiza, Gimboki in Mutare, and Cowdray Park in Bulawayo.
Nick Mangwana, Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, announced that 1,000 title deeds have been issued thus far, with an additional 18,000 offer letters ready for issuance in June. Significant progress has been made in Epworth, where essential infrastructure designs, including a water treatment plant and sewage systems, have been completed.
In Chitungwiza, the programme targets the issuance of 55,000 title deeds to longstanding municipal tenants, and plans are underway to issue 9,000 deeds in Southlea Park once necessary services are in place. Additionally, 21,000 deeds will be issued nationwide under the Government-enabled housing programme, aimed at regularizing informal settlements and benefiting government housing beneficiaries.
Mangwana highlighted ongoing preparations in Chitungwiza, Gimboki, and Cowdray Park, including surveying, infrastructure design, and bond management registrations to facilitate deed issuance. Offer letters are currently being distributed, laying the groundwork for the official issuance of title deeds. The Kwangu Trust Command Centre, equipped with advanced technology, is capable of issuing up to 1,000 deeds daily.
To ensure the security and authenticity of these documents, the government is introducing digital title deeds. These deeds will be printed on tear and water-proof securitized paper with advanced security features. The system supporting these deeds utilizes blockchain technology, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized alterations.
This intensified effort underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing property rights and fostering sustainable urban development across Zimbabwe.
