We appeal to the general public to be patient. All MDC led Councils are now following a programme which will, within a short period of time, provide all who want to live on a permanent basis in the urban areas, a plot of land within their means with security of tenure and all necessary services. The programme, which is already being implemented, includes the following steps:
1. The Councils to identify land that is suitable for housing.
2. The Council to undertake the required planning and survey.
3. Allocation of the stands to people on the waiting lists.
4. Sale of the stands at a price determined by the cost of servicing.
5. Provision of title deeds when payment is received in full.
6. Provision of house plans for approval and normal building inspection during construction.
7. Assistance, where possible, with long term loans at a reasonable interest rates to stand owners for construction.
This will mean that all home owners in these schemes will have freehold title to their properties, the provision of all required services by the Councils and access to schools, clinics and recreation as well as inner City transport systems. They will then be able to express themselves freely in any democratic elections.
Efforts are being made in all areas controlled by the MDC Councils to formalize existing informal settlements on a basis that will meet the needs of the affected families, avoid destruction of property and facilitate the proper, orderly settlement of these Communities with security of tenure.
Eddie Cross
Secretary for Local Government
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