Revealed: Will South Africa go down the same path as neighboring Zimbabwe?
The situation in Zimbabwe has been a hugely debatable topic lately. With land reform policies coming into effect soon, one cannot help but draw comparisons between our neighbors and South Africa.
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Briefly.co.za asked readers whether or not they felt South Africa was destined for the same fate as our neighbors, Zimbabwe. The topic was hotly debated, with arguments being made for both sides.
Some argued that South Africa was stable enough to pull off land reform without ending up in the same situation economy-wise. Others said that that the current situation in Zimbabwe was due to sanctions, and not land reform.
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The majority of readers seem to have felt there was a distinct possibility. Reasons why they felt South Africa was headed in the same direction included land reform and the widespread corruption in government.
READ ALSO: Poll reveals citizens are concerned about influx of illegal immigrants to SA
Those who said no, argued that South Africa was strong enough to achieve land reform without damaging the economy, as well as , putting an end to the looting taking place in the government.
Eden Nyamutamba felt that the cause of Zimbabwe's suffering had not been its land reform policies but the sanctions put into effect. He explained that once sanctions are lifted the economy will begin to recover.
The CATO Institute commented on land reform in 2018, saying that:
“Ultimately South Africa should heed the warning provided by their neighbour’s near-total implosion. The economic consequences that flow from a policy of land seizures are as disastrous as they are unavoidable.”
The organisation had maintained that an 'attack on property rights' would lead to:
- the destruction of the farming community
- a dramatic reduction in agricultural productivity
- mass unemployment
This is a fair summary of the issues that have led to the current situation in Zimbabwe, political mayhem put aside.
The policies our neighbour put in place vary from the proposed act ,currently out for public comment. Whether or not we can trust the current government with land ownership rights remains to be seen.
If you would like to add your opinions to the debate, join in by commenting on Facebook.
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Source: Briefly News
