Garwe to tour illegal settlements in Harare as demolitions loom

The City of Harare has ordered an immediate stop to all unapproved and illegal construction activities ahead of a tour of illegal settlements by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, early this week.

In a public notice issued on 20 August 2026, the council said the Minister, accompanied by city authorities, will conduct a comprehensive inspection of all identified illegal settlements in Harare.

“All unapproved and illegal construction activities must cease immediately,” the council said.

According to the notice, the tour is part of enforcement measures to restore order and lawful land administration in the capital.

The council issued four directives to the public. Firstly, all construction, land clearing and trenching without municipal approval or a valid title deed must stop immediately.

Secondly, the Ministerial delegation will inspect all non-compliant sites and take enforcement action where necessary.

Thirdly, all unapproved structures, whether complete or still under construction, will be demolished in accordance with the law.

Lastly, individuals, syndicates and illegal land barons found selling, buying or building on unallocated State or council land will be arrested and prosecuted.

“Individuals, syndicates, or illegal land barons selling, buying, or building on unallocated state or council land will face swift arrest and prosecution under the full weight of the law,” reads the notice.

The City also warned residents and prospective buyers against buying land or paying money to unauthorised individuals promising land regularisation.

“The Ministry will not protect or compensate anyone engaging in illicit land deals,” it said.

The council said order and lawful land administration will be restored without exception.