Zimbabwe's Historic Compensation for Former Farm Owners

Zimbabwe's Ministry of Finance has received praise for its significant progress in compensating former farm owners impacted by the 2000 Land Reform Programme. The government has processed 906 compensation claims under the Global Compensation Deed, marking a milestone in its Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. During an event in Abidjan, a Danish former farm owner expressed gratitude for the compensation, emphasizing the emotional impact of the journey.

Zimbabwe has issued US$3.1 million in cash and US$308 million in Treasury bonds to 378 former owners as part of the compensation plan. Additionally, US$18.2 million was allocated to farms under Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements (BIPPA). International stakeholders, including Swiss and EU ambassadors, have acknowledged the importance of this step toward national reconciliation and governance reforms.

Support from global partners remains crucial, as highlighted by African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who stressed the need for continued assistance to resolve Zimbabwe's debt issues. The establishment of a Structured Dialogue Platform aims to support these reforms, fostering cooperation among creditors and development partners.