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Zimbabwe Farmers’ Group Rejects Compensation Deal for Past Land Seizures

April 18, 2025

A group representing many white farmers whose land was seized during Zimbabwe's land reforms has rejected a compensation deal, criticizing the amounts as "token" and wanting to reopen negotiations with the government. The government has started paying compensation to some white farmers who lost land and property, approving $3. 1 million (1% of the total $311 million claim), with the balance to be settled through treasury bonds over 10 years.

Who is affected

  • Approximately 4,000 white farmers who lost their homes and land during Zimbabwe's land redistribution program
  • The 378 farmers who have already received compensation from the first batch of 740 farms approved
  • Elderly white farmers in their 70s and 80s who, according to representative Deon Theron, are unlikely to benefit from treasury bills
  • About 300,000 Black families who were resettled on the acquired land according to government figures

What action is being taken

  • The Zimbabwe government is currently disbursing $3.1 million in compensation to white farmers who lost land during reforms
  • A group representing nearly half of the affected farmers is attempting to reopen negotiations with the government
  • The government is issuing treasury bonds over 10 years to settle the balance of compensation claims
  • Representatives of the dissenting farmers group are trying to meet with government officials, though their efforts have been unsuccessful so far

Why it matters

  • The compensation deal is part of Zimbabwe's debt resolution and international re-engagement strategy after years of sanctions
  • Land ownership remains an emotive topic in Zimbabwe and neighboring countries due to colonial-era land inequities
  • The issue represents an attempt to address historical injustices while providing some form of closure for affected farmers
  • The compensation approach has created division among farmer groups, with some accepting payments out of financial desperation while others hold out for more substantial compensation

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint