Shurugwi North MP Calls for Dialogue in Land Dispute

Shurugwi North legislator Joseph Mpasi has stepped in to address a growing land dispute involving local farmers and private investors, urging both sides to resolve their differences through discussion and cooperation.

The conflict, centered at the Gwenhoro turn-off in ward 22, has seen land reform beneficiaries clash with investors planning commercial agricultural projects, stalling potential development in the area.

Mpasi emphasized the need for patience and compromise for the benefit of the wider community.

“The land question is delicate, but it should not create division,” he said. “Investors bring resources, technology, and access to markets, while beneficiaries hold the custodial rights to the land. Both sides can benefit if they collaborate rather than work at cross purposes.”

Some land reform beneficiaries expressed concerns that investors were attempting to displace them from land they legally occupy.

“We were resettled under the government’s land reform programme, and this land is our livelihood,” one beneficiary said. “We welcome investment, but we must be consulted and treated with respect. Displacement cannot happen again.”

Investors, meanwhile, highlighted that ongoing disputes and lack of cooperation were deterring serious investment and development in the area.

Community leaders have also called for dialogue to prevent the disagreement from escalating into open conflict.

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development has previously promoted joint ventures between investors and land reform beneficiaries as a way to increase productivity while safeguarding farmers’ interests.

Mpasi announced plans to facilitate additional meetings between the parties and government officials to reach a lasting resolution.

“As your representative, I will ensure that disputes do not stall progress,” he said. “We must find common ground that protects farmers’ rights while encouraging investment for the benefit of the entire constituency.”