Epworth Title Deeds Scandal Uncovered—Residents Misled Over Presidential Title Deeds Programme
Harare, Zimbabwe – Thousands of Epworth residents have been left in shock and confusion as revelations emerge that the much-publicized title deeds under the Presidential Title Deeds and Settlement Regularisation Programme may not be the qualifying legal documents they were promised.
The programme, launched in April 2023, was intended to provide legal ownership of properties to homeowners, thereby unlocking economic opportunities. However, it has come to light that the nearly 4,000 residents who applied for these title deeds might not receive fully qualifying legal documents, as initially suggested by government officials.
According to new information, the Epworth Local Board secretary, Dr. Wilton Mhanda, previously praised the overwhelming response to the initiative. “I am very happy that this programme has provided a long-awaited opportunity for our communities,” he said. Yet, it appears this optimism may have been premature.
Insiders close to the process have revealed that the current title deeds being issued might not meet the full legal criteria required for property ownership. Specifically, concerns are being raised over the stringent requirements for a property to qualify for a legitimate title deed, including the necessity of an approved building plan and a completed title survey. Many residents may not meet these conditions, leading to fears that they could be left with worthless papers instead of legally recognized ownership documents.
One of the critical issues highlighted is the status of properties built on wetlands. Dr. Mhanda mentioned a relocation strategy for these residents, but critics argue that this acknowledgment indicates that many properties already do not qualify for legitimate title deeds. “We respect the rights of those living in wetlands and have applied to the Government for the acquisition of additional land to accommodate them,” Mhanda said. However, this may be a tacit admission that these properties were improperly regularized in the first place.
Local governance and urban planning experts have started questioning the transparency of the programme. “The government might be using this as a political tool, giving residents a false sense of security about their property ownership status,” said a source familiar with land administration.
Meanwhile, residents are expressing outrage and betrayal. “We were told this would change our lives, give us real ownership of our homes. Now it feels like we’ve been duped,” said one Epworth resident who asked to remain anonymous.
This unfolding scandal could have far-reaching implications, not only for Epworth but also for the broader Presidential Title Deeds and Settlement Regularisation Programme, which aims to regularize over 1.5 million properties across Zimbabwe.
Government officials are yet to issue an official response to these allegations. As the situation develops, affected residents are being urged to seek legal advice and verify the legitimacy of any documents they receive under the programme.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.