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Land body to fast-track claims
JOHANNESBURG – Land claims can be settled by the Land Claims Commission without ministerial approval, in order to speed up the restitution process, the commission said yesterday.
Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs Lulama Xingwana has delegated her powers to the chief land claims commissioner and regional land claims commissioners.
This will enable the Land Commission to fast-track outstanding claims, said chief commissioner Thozamile Gwanya.
Land claims of up to a R1 million will go through Gwanya’s office, while claims of up to R50 million will be approved by regional commissioners.
“The commission commits itself that this delegation of power shall be exercised within a clearly defined policy framework, and control measures have been put in place to guard against misuse of these powers,” Gwanya said.
The commissioners will report all approved claims to the Minister monthly.
The number of claims settled in October and November is 701, involving 193 819 hectares for 20 624 households.
Development support worth R108 million has been approved for claimants who choose the return of land.
The Minister will approve land claims of higher than R100 million. All expropriations will also be approved by her. – Sapa.
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