Housing in the Aftermath of the Fast Track Land Reform Programme in Zimbabwe

This book explores the Fast Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP) in Zimbabwe, highlighting how it facilitated the delivery of housing for low-income urban households. It examines the politics of land reforms and the power of community engagement in housing development. The FTLRP led to the invasion of farms for housing development, with some challenges such as lack of infrastructure. The book proposes a new model for effective delivery of land and housing for the urban poor as a useful policy tool for urban planners and other professionals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the Fast Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP) in Zimbabwe, offering valuable insights into its role in facilitating the delivery of housing for low-income urban households. It sheds light on the politics of land reforms and the significant impact of community engagement in housing development within urban areas.

Prior to the implementation of the FTLRP, the Zimbabwean government had traditionally overlooked popular modes of housing production as crucial factors in urban development. In the realm of low-income housing, informal housing schemes had often been met with apathy and indifference, leaving the conventional mode of housing production as the sole legitimate means to accommodate low-income households, despite its inherent shortcomings. However, the advent of the FTLRP in 2000 marked a significant turning point, as homeless urban households seized the opportunity to invade farms for housing development.

Through the lenses of Marxism and Neoliberalism, this book conducts an in-depth analysis of the housing schemes that emerged as a result of the FTLRP, as well as the overall impact of the programme on housing and land delivery in Harare. The analysis is based on empirical evidence gathered from key informants and comprehensive household surveys conducted in Harare. The authors argue that the FTLRP provided a platform for households to exhibit innovative approaches to housing development, supported by the unspoken national urban vision and the political leadership's prowess. Consequently, the success of these housing schemes can be measured by the acquisition of land, which ensures households access to the city.

However, it is important to note that some of these housing schemes encounter challenges, particularly in terms of inadequate infrastructure.

In conclusion, this book offers a fresh and innovative model for effective land and housing delivery for the urban poor. It serves as a valuable policy tool for urban planners, housing experts, land economists, urban and regional geographers, as well as social activists. By examining the successes and challenges of the FTLRP, this book contributes to our understanding of the complex dynamics of urban development and the role of community engagement in addressing housing needs in underserved urban areas.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367654511