Terrence Mawawa, Chiredzi|In a move set to trigger a massive sugar shortage, the government has taken over 4000 hectares of sugarcane fields from Tongaat Hullet, triggering job losses in the process.
In a shocking move implemented under the controversial indigenisation programme, 196 beneficiaries mainly Zanu PF functionaries, CIO bosses and senior army officials, have received offer letters to take over the land which comprises fields with ready to harvest sugarcane.
With the streets teeming with thousands of unemployed people, the move will see at least 2,000 workers losing their jobs.
The takeover has happened at a time when profits for Tongaat Hullet have plunged to an all time low of $ 1 million compared to $ 74 million in 2013.
Masvingo State Minister Shuvai Ben Mahofa confirmed the issue but she would not disclose further details on the matter. Acting Provincial Lands Officer, Tendai Mumera also confirmed the development.
Government sources told ZimEye.com, Deputy Minister of Youth Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment, Mathias Tongofa got a 20 hectare plot in Hippo Valley, Gutu Central MP Lovemore Matuke’s child who is studying in China also benefited from the exercise while Mahofa’s three children were also allocated land in the same exercise.
ZimEye.com is also reliably informed six traditional leaders and Deputy Lands Minister Berita Chikwama’s child benefited from the programme.
As a result of the controversial move, the production of sugarcane is expected to drop drastically.