Understanding the Human Rights Impacts of Land Grabbing as a Form of Agri-Businesses in Zimbabwe
摘要
This chapter traces the history of agri-businesses in Zimbabwe from the colonial era to the present day, the human rights violations associated with this process as well as its effects on the agro-business sector. Land grabbing in Zimbabwe dates back to the colonial era when the settlers came into the country and took away land from the native black people leading to the war of liberation. Land grabbing continued after independence and intensified in 2000 with the invasion of white-owned farms. Land grabbing continues today with government officials now evicting blacks to make way for their cronies and politically connected companies. The 2000 land invasions resulted in the loss of livelihoods for the farmers and their workers, rape, torture and killings perpetuated by the war veterans and ZANU PF supporters. Although land invasion today is less violent as compared to that of 2000, several human rights laws, treaties and conventions are still being violated. Land invasions have also had serious negative effects on the Zimbabwean economy. There has been a drop in total farm output which has led to starvation and famine. Seed houses, fertilizers companies and banks that used to provide loans to farmers also witness a decline in business while unemployment in farms increased. The chapter makes recommendations on preventing land grabs such as making alliances with human rights organisations and people concerned about property rights and the rule of law and also getting people and legislators talking and thinking and understanding and believing in property rights. Organisations such as SADC, ACHPR, UNHRC and the ICC can help protect the aggrieved parties.