Eastwind Trust, a Zimbabwean development company owned by prominent – Zanu PF member Rodgers Pote, has been implicated in a fraudulent scheme involving the sale of stands and unauthorized development of an illegal settlement in Donnybrook Park, Harare.
This development has raised serious questions regarding land ownership and the legality of housing allocations in the area.
The complainant in this case, Homegram Investments Limited, is represented by former Mt. Pleasant MP Jason Pasade, 44, who took the stand to provide evidence of the ongoing malpractices of Eastwind Trust.
During cross-examination, Pasade described the accused as “land barons” in the Ruwa area, highlighting a troubling trend of illegal land transactions that have sparked community outrage.
Pasade disclosed that while his company was in the process of servicing the stands, they became aware that the accused were already selling and allocating plots on the very same land—a clear violation of property rights.
“Upon noticing the matter, I approached the police to file a report. However, the police dismissed the issue, stating that it was a civil matter,” Pasade explained, expressing frustration at the lack of law enforcement support.
In a significant turn of events, on September 19, 2023, Homegram Investments secured a High Court order (HC 5555/23) to evict the illegal settlers from the contested land.
However, despite this judicial ruling, Eastwind Trust reportedly defied the order, continuing to occupy the land unlawfully. Prosecutor Takudzwa Mutyavaviri revealed that two months later, the High Court issued a provisional order against Eastwind Trust, but the company persistently refused to vacate the premises.
Pasade further elaborated that in 2020, his company entered into a legitimate agreement to develop residential stands for members of the Freedom Fighters Development Trust. However, this project has been significantly hindered by the illegal activities of Eastwind Trust.
The case has attracted considerable public interest, drawing attention to broader of the ongoing challenges faced by developers in Zimbabwe.
Community members expressed concerns over the proliferation of so-called “land barons” who exploit legal loopholes and engage in unscrupulous practices.
As the court proceedings continue, many are calling for stricter enforcement of land laws and accountability for those involved in corrupt land dealings.
Legal experts emphasize that the outcome of this case could set a precedent regarding land ownership rights and the measures necessary to protect legitimate investors in Zimbabwe’s real estate market.
The case remains ongoing, with further hearings scheduled in the coming weeks. The community and stakeholders are closely watching as justice is sought against these alleged land barons.
