52 There still remain considerable uncertainties in land policy and its implementation procedure resulting in disputes on many acquired farms. The complexities of settling such disputes, is very high, as each of the farms has its unique characteristics and history. Initial allocation decisions are specific to each farm, as are the real or perceived claims of those inadequately served or left out altogether. This stems both from the incompleteness of the laws, regulations and implementation mechanisms, as well as a lack of information and knowledge about these among those charged with implementation throughout the country, as well as among the population at large. It is thus imperative to get clarity on all these issues as a basis for resolving these disputes. It is important to adopt a comprehensive and inclusive approach in addressing all the outstanding issues around the land reforms so as to begin a process of recovery for the agricultural sector and the economy as a whole. A comprehensive programme thus needs to be developed, with the participation of all stakeholders, to address all these outstanding issues. There is need to harness all available technical expertise. As stakeholders in this process, it is important that we start talking to each other, rather than to ourselves, in considering these issues. Government leadership and magnanimity in reaching out to all stakeholders is vital. In such a sensitive issue, a broadly consultative approach is more likely to yield desired results than a prescriptive approach.

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