Itai Mazire
In a decisive ruling on Monday, the High Court nullified the state’s controversial acquisition of Cloverdale B Farm in Ruwa, bringing an end to a bitter two-decade land dispute.
The court declared the allocation of the prime property to Glorious Properties a company owned by former Deputy Transport Minister Petronella Kagonye, “null and void,” restoring ownership to the original occupants: Ruwa Estate and One Mzuri Estate (Galloway Estate).
The long-running conflict began more than 20 years ago when Kagonye’s firm allegedly displaced dozens of residents from Cloverdale B Farm to make way for a planned gated community named Glorified Brook. Monday’s judgment now paves the way for the return of the land to its rightful owners.
Residents who were evicted during the dispute celebrated the ruling as a victory for ordinary citizens over politically connected individuals.
“We have waited two decades for this day,” said Tinashe Murombedzi, a resident who was among those displaced. “Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe promised us justice would prevail, and true to his word, the court has spoken. This land belongs to us.”
Fellow resident Sekai Moyo added: “We almost lost hope after fighting for so many years. But the courts have shown that no one is above the law. We are overjoyed.”
Legal experts say the judgment sets a powerful precedent in land disputes involving former government officials, reaffirming judicial independence in matters of land rights and historical injustice.
Bottom line: The High Court has effectively undone the state’s original handover of Cloverdale B to Kagonye’s company, clearing the way for displaced families and original landowners to reclaim the property.