MACRAD Calls for Protection of Communities Facing Displacement in Chiredzi

Pondering the next move the displaced villagers at Arda Transau. FILE PIC

The Masvingo Centre for Research and Development (MACRAD) is deeply concerned by reports of land-related displacements, intimidation and alleged violations of the rights of communities in Chiredzi.

The reported developments raise serious concerns about the protection of communities whose livelihoods, homes, agricultural fields, grazing areas and cultural connections are tied to ancestral and communal land.

MACRAD is particularly concerned that affected communities may be facing decisions concerning their land without adequate consultation, meaningful participation or access to clear information about the processes leading to their displacement.

Land is not merely an economic resource. For rural communities, it is the foundation of livelihoods, food security, culture, identity and community life. Any process that results in the displacement of communities must therefore respect Zimbabwe’s Constitution, relevant laws and internationally recognised human rights standards.
Rights of affected communities must be respected

MACRAD calls upon government authorities, traditional leaders, local authorities and private actors involved in land allocation or development projects to respect the fundamental rights of affected communities.

Communities must be provided with timely and accessible information about proposed developments affecting their land. They must be given meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods.

Consultation must not be treated as a procedural formality. It must allow communities to raise objections, propose alternatives and have their concerns genuinely considered before irreversible decisions are taken.

MACRAD is also concerned by reports of intimidation and pressure against community members, activists and grassroots organisations raising concerns over land rights.
The exercise of constitutionally protected rights, including freedom of expression, assembly, association and petition, must not result in harassment, persecution or retaliation.

No development without justice

MACRAD recognises the importance of investment and development in Zimbabwe. However, development cannot be pursued at the expense of vulnerable communities.
We reject the notion that economic development and community rights are mutually exclusive. Responsible development should improve people’s lives rather than undermine their access to land, food, shelter and livelihoods.

Where displacement is unavoidable and lawful, affected communities must be meaningfully consulted and provided with fair compensation, adequate alternative land where appropriate, livelihood restoration measures and other safeguards consistent with the law and human rights standards.

MACRAD recommendations

Immediate protection of affected communities: Government must ensure that community members facing displacement, intimidation or harassment are protected from threats and reprisals.

Independent investigation: An independent investigation should be undertaken into allegations of unlawful land acquisition, intimidation, rights violations and forced displacement in affected parts of Chiredzi.

Suspend contested displacements: Any displacement process involving disputed land should be suspended until the legal status of the land and the rights of affected communities have been independently established.

Authorities must conduct transparent, inclusive and properly documented consultations with all affected communities, including women, young people, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

Livelihood protection: Any intervention affecting agricultural and grazing land must take into account the impact on food security and household incomes. Communities should receive appropriate livelihood-restoration support.

Independent assessments should establish who legally occupies or holds the affected land, the nature of existing land rights and the potential social, economic and environmental impacts of proposed developments.

Community-based organisations, activists, journalists and human rights defenders working with affected communities must be allowed to operate without intimidation or persecution.

Authorities should establish an accessible and independent complaints mechanism through which affected residents can challenge decisions and seek remedies without fear of retaliation.