A Step-By-Step Guide to Title Deeds Issuance for Farmers in Zimbabwe

Kelvin Sabao

05 Mar, 2025

Land Ownership in Zimbabwe for Farmers

Introduction

In a significant move to enhance land security and investment in agriculture, the Government of Zimbabwe, through the Presidential Title Deed Implementation Committee, has initiated the issuance of Title Deeds to eligible farmers. This initiative provides formal ownership to holders of valid offer letters, A2 permits, 99-year leases, A1 settlement permits, A1 temporary permits, and ALSA leases. The process is designed to be efficient and transparent, ensuring that farmers can secure their land tenure with minimal delays. The One-Stop Centre, established at the Lands Development and Administration Department in Harare, serves as the primary point for processing these documents.

Fast-Track Processing and Payment Terms

The processing of Title Deeds will take approximately three days for farmers who make full cash payments. For those opting to pay within 90 days, the Title Deed will be processed upon payment of a deposit and issued upon completion of the full payment.

Farm Purchase Price and Discounts

Farms are sold at their assessed value with the following discounts available:

· 15% discount for cash payments.

· 15% discount for war veterans.

· 5% discount for civil servants with 20 years or more of service.

· 2.5% discount for civil servants with 10 years or more of service.

Cash discounts are applicable only if the full purchase price is paid within the stipulated 90-day period.

For those requiring financial assistance, the government is in the process of finalizing mortgage arrangements with selected banks. Further updates will be provided once these arrangements are in place.

Step-by-Step Process at the One-Stop Centre

Step 1: Data Collection

· The farmer completes a data collection form with the assistance of a valuation and estate officer.

· Required documents submitted:

o Certified copies of National ID or Passport.

o Certified copy of relevant tenure document (e.g., 99-year lease, Offer Letter, A2 Permit, A1 Settlement Permit, A1 Temporary Permit, ALSA Lease).

· Payment of a processing fee of USD $10.00.

Step 2: Initial Processing

· The Surveyor confirms survey status and uploads the survey diagram into the Deeds System.

· Zimbabwe Land Commission (ZLC) official verifies farm status, including any disputes.

· The Conveyancer confirms the farmer’s identity with the Registrar General’s office.

· The Valuation and Estate Officer determines the purchase price and seeks approval for Title Deed issuance.

· The farmer signs the necessary legal documents, including:

o Agreement of Sale.

o Declaration by Purchaser.

o Consent to cancel a 99-year lease (if applicable).

Step 3: Title Deed Generation Upon full payment of the purchase price and registration fees:

· Upon full payment of the purchase price and registration fees, the conveyancer enters the farmer's information into the system for Title Deed preparation. A digital platform has been created specifically for the issuance of title deeds to farmers.

Step 4: Title Deed Registration and Issuance

· A Deeds official examines the generated Title Deed and forwards it to the Deeds Registrar for approval.

· The surveyor finalizes deductions for the Lot/farm that is being registered.

· The Deeds official registers the Title Deed.

· The Ministry of Lands issues a Clearance Certificate confirming full payment.

· The farmer is issued a registered Title Deed.

Conclusion

The issuance of Title Deeds is a milestone in Zimbabwe’s land reform program, providing security of tenure and encouraging agricultural development. By streamlining the process through the One-Stop Centre, the Government of Zimbabwe aims to facilitate the formalization of land ownership efficiently. Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative and secure their land rights, ensuring long-term investment and sustainability in the agricultural sector.