White farmers in Zimbabwe who lost their land during the land seizures of the early 2000s are hoping Donald Trump might help them finally receive billions of dollars in compensation promised by the Zimbabwean government. But opinions are divided over whether his involvement would help or actually make things worse.
Why the compensation issue exists
During the rule of Robert Mugabe, about 4,500 mostly white-owned farms were taken and redistributed to Black Zimbabweans as part of a land reform programme intended to address colonial-era land inequality. Around 2,500 white farmers were forced off their land.
While the reform aimed to correct historical injustice, the chaotic way it was carried out contributed to the collapse of Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and wider economy.
When Mugabe was replaced by Emmerson Mnangagwa, the government agreed in 2020 to pay about $3.5bn to compensate farmers for buildings, irrigation systems and other improvements made to the land (not the land itself).
Why the money has not been paid
Zimbabwe’s government says it wants to pay but cannot afford it. The country is struggling with about $23bn in debt and limited access to international loans.
Instead, the government offered farmers a compromise:
- 1% of the compensation paid immediately
- The rest issued as government bonds that mature in 10 years with small interest payments.
Many farmers rejected this deal because they fear the government might not be able to pay the bonds later.
How Trump might get involved
Some farmers have hired a Washington lobbying firm to try to influence US policy and encourage the US government to help Zimbabwe clear its debts through international institutions such as the World Bank.
The idea is that if Zimbabwe regains access to global financing, it might finally be able to pay the compensation.
But this would require changes to US law. A key obstacle is the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act, which instructs US officials to oppose loans or debt relief for Zimbabwe from international financial institutions.
Why Trump’s involvement is controversial
Some farmers believe Trump could pressure Zimbabwe to settle the debt quickly. Others worry his involvement could worsen relations between Washington and Harare.
His previous statements about white farmers in South Africa, where he claimed they were being persecuted, were widely criticised and seen as racialising the issue. Farmers fear similar rhetoric could destabilise Zimbabwe’s fragile political environment.
Another possible factor: minerals
Zimbabwe has large deposits of lithium and other rare-earth minerals, which are valuable for batteries and modern technology. Some believe the US might support financial deals with Zimbabwe if it gains access to these resources.
The uncertain outcome
For many of the farmers—some now elderly and waiting decades for compensation—the situation remains uncertain.
Trump’s involvement could potentially speed up negotiations and financing. But it could also trigger new political tensions or sanctions that might make Zimbabwe’s economic problems even worse.
