The Government has dismissed claims that the return of 67 farms protected under Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements (BIPPA) marks a reversal of Zimbabwe’s land reform programme, with authorities stressing that the move is part of resolving legal obligations and strengthening the country’s land tenure framework.

Acting Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Minister of Agriculture, Mechanization and water resource Dr Anxious Masuka, on Wednesday directly addressed the misconception, explaining that the return of BIPPA properties is a narrowly defined legal and constitutional obligation not a policy shift back to the pre-2000 era.

“The BIPPA process is about settling outstanding legal claims and compensating investments protected by bilateral treaties, it does not open the floodgates for the return of all former white farms, the land reform programme remains irreversible,” he said.

The Minister confirmed that while 67 properties covered under BIPPA will be returned to their previous owners, this represents a fraction of the total land under the programme and is being done strictly within the framework of Zimbabwean law and international investment obligations.

The development comes at a time when the government is simultaneously granting secure tenure to a staggering 450,000 black farmers under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.

According to the Minister, in terms of the Constitution Sections 289, 293, and 295, the government will provide permits, leases, and offer letters to 360,000 A1 farmers 23,500 A2 farmers Over 70,000 old resettlement farmers.

In addition to these, the government is correcting historical and administrative errors that have fuelled the reversal myth. Authorities are returning 840 farms that were wrongly gazetted but which rightfully belong to black farmers.

In another move that reinforces the government’s commitment to indigenous ownership, some 10,000 Matenganyika farms whose beneficiaries were given leases before 1980 will now finally receive title deeds.

For the 409 former farm owners who have remained on their properties due to long-standing peaceful co-existence with new owners, the government has crafted a specific solution that stops short of outright reversal. These individuals will now be allowed to purchase the properties they occupy.

Itai Mazire

Zimbabwe faces a high probability of a looming El Niño event during the 2026/27 rainy season, with forecasts indicating a significant chance of below-normal rainfall.

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a preliminary update, urging calm but emphasising the need for proactive measures.

Global climate forecasting centers predict an 88 to 94 percent chance of an El Niño event, historically linked to drier-than-average conditions in Zimbabwe.

“Historically, El Niño conditions in Zimbabwe carry a 65 percent chance of below-normal rainfall, which can lead to drier-than-average conditions.”

Despite the concerning outlook, the MSD cautions against premature decisions.

They said that early forecasts face a “spring predictability barrier,” meaning atmospheric and oceanic conditions could still change significantly before the season begins.

Consequently, the department has not yet released its official seasonal forecast.

“Because of this inherent uncertainty, the MSD has not yet issued its official seasonal forecast and warns the public and stakeholders against making final agricultural or financial decisions based solely on these preliminary models,” the statement read.

A more definitive national outlook (NACOF) is anticipated in August 2026, following the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF).

In the interim, the MSD is advising both the public and the farming community to remain composed.

They recommend continuing with standard preparations for the upcoming season and adopting climate-resilient practices.

These practices include water conservation and the identification of drought-tolerant seed varieties.

The MSD further encouraged stakeholders to stay informed through official channels.

“Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed exclusively through official MSD channels for regular updates as the weather outlook becomes clearer in the months ahead.”

The upcoming NACOF report will incorporate more recent data, providing crucial scientific guidance for accurate seasonal planning.

The MSD will continue to monitor updates closely.

Itai Mazire

Government has launched a decisive intervention to protect tobacco farmers facing a sharp decline in prices, announcing a series of measures including levy cuts and the establishment of a stabilisation fund

The new move will also see an investigation into potential collusion within the industry.

Agriculture Mechanisation Water Resources Development Minister, Hon. Dr. Anxious Masuka, expressed grave concern over the average tobacco price plummeting to USD 2.62 this season, a significant drop from last year’s USD 3.42.

Despite a projected 49 percent increase in crop volume, Minister Masuka asserted that such a price reduction is unjustifiable and detrimental to farmers.

“The government is actively investigating possible collusion among buyers and has already suspended one buyer as part of these efforts,” said Hon.Masuka.

He said that contractor relationships are also under review for potential price manipulation, signaling a firm stance against exploitative practices.

To provide immediate relief and long-term support, Hon. Masuka detailed the government’s actions:

“We will restrict the afforestation levy to firewood users and remove the 2 percent coal CSR levy.”

“A stabilisation fund will be set up to promote efficient irrigation and curing systems aiming to enhance productivity and quality for farmers.”

Additionally, a technical group has been formed in collaboration with the World Tobacco Industry.

This group’s mandate is to strengthen Zimbabwe’s international marketing position, ensuring that the nation’s tobacco produce commands fair value on the global market.

Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, showing government’s commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of its tobacco farmers.