Matebeleland Pulse Reporter
The Government has launched a pilot programme to validate and re-issue title deeds as part of a broader push to modernise the country’s land administration system, the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs said in a statement.
The Title Deeds Validation and Re-Issuance Pilot Programme, which began on April 1, 2026, will run for two weeks and is being implemented under the Deeds Registries Regulations, 2025 (Statutory Instrument 76 of 2025).
The initiative aims to transition Zimbabwe’s property records from paper-based title deeds to a digital system designed to improve security, accessibility and efficiency.
“The objective of the Programme is to facilitate the transition from existing title deeds to a secure and efficient digital land administration framework,” the ministry said. “This transformation is designed to enhance the accessibility, integrity, and security of property records, while strengthening public confidence in the national deeds registry.”
The pilot will test the Digital Land Administration Platform (DLAP), allowing authorities to assess system performance, user experience and readiness before a nationwide rollout.
Under the regulations, all property owners will be required to convert their title deeds into digital format within two years.
A selected group of registered conveyancers has been appointed to participate in the pilot phase, handling applications for validation and digital re-issuance on behalf of property owners.
“To ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the Programme, the Department has appointed the following law firms to participate in the Pilot Programme:
Chimuka Mafunga Commercial Attorneys, Mhishi Nkomo Legal Practice, Muzondo Chinhema Legal Practitioners, Wintertons Legal Practitioners, Dube, Manikai & Hwacha, Madzima Chidyausiku Museta Legal Practitioners, Chizengeya Maeresera & Partners, Chikwengo LawChambers, Chasi Maguwudze Legal Practice, Matizanadzo Attorneys, Malinga Masango Legal Practice, Chikwangwani Tapi Attorneys, Rungwandiand Company, Chiwunda-Mujokoro & P Takawadiyi Law Chambers, Coghlan, Welsh and Guest, Mvhiringi Associates.”
The Deeds Registry will verify submitted documents and issue digitally secured title deeds.
“Feedback gathered throughout this process will be utilised to further strengthen the DLAP system and ensure its efficiency, reliability, and user-friendliness,” the ministry said.
The government said safeguards had been put in place to protect the integrity and legal validity of records processed under the programme.
“The Chief Registrar assures all stakeholders that comprehensive safeguards have been instituted to preserve the integrity, authenticity, and legal validity of all records and title deeds processed under this Programme,” the statement said.
Authorities said the reform is part of wider efforts to improve transparency and service delivery in the justice system.
“The Ministry remains committed to delivering a modern, transparent, and efficient property registration system that supports national development and safeguards property rights for all citizens,” the statement added.
The public has been encouraged to contact the Department of Deeds, Companies and Intellectual Property for further information.
