In a tragic development, a massive fire has reportedly engulfed Saviour Kasukuwere’s citrus plantation at Concorpia Farm in Mazowe, resulting in extensive damage. This incident comes at a time when legal efforts are underway to remove an invader from the property.
Despite a High Court order, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has allegedly refused to enforce the eviction.
Saviour Kasukuwere, a former local government minister who was barred from contesting the 2023 presidential elections by courts, expressed his shock and uncertainty regarding the motive behind this devastating arson attack. He took to social media platform X to share the distressing news, stating that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
“It never rains but pours: A huge fire has destroyed my prime citrus plant at Concorpia Farm, Mazowe. Against all legal efforts to remove the invader, the ZRP has refused to enforce a HC order. For now, we are yet to ascertain the motive behind this arson attack,” said Kasukuwere.
The conflict over the ownership of Concorpia Farm involves Kasukuwere and war veterans led by Ephanos Mudzimunyi. The war veterans invaded the farm and took control, usurping Kasukuwere’s citrus produce. Seeking legal recourse, Kasukuwere obtained a High Court order demanding the invaders to vacate the property.
However, Mudzimunyi has adamantly refused to comply with the court order, asserting that he was allocated the land by the late Perrance Shiri, who served as the Lands, Agriculture, Water, and Rural Resettlement minister. Consequently, the situation has reached an impasse, resulting in a halt in production at the farm.
Frustration is mounting among the farm workers who have been unable to carry out their duties effectively, leading to significant financial losses for Concorpia Farm. The recent fire has further exacerbated the predicament by causing severe damage to the citrus plantation.
The exact extent of the losses incurred is yet to be determined, and the situation remains precarious. It is worth noting that a few days prior to the fire incident, unknown individuals stole bags and valuables belonging to Kasukuwere’s daughter, adding to the difficulties faced by the family.
The ongoing dispute and the consequential destruction at Concorpia Farm highlight the challenges surrounding land ownership and the enforcement of legal decisions in Zimbabwe. The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies and the need for a resolution to prevent further damage and loss.