The collection of the rent would induce an efficient use of land, and the elimination of taxes on production would unleash full incentives to work and invest. Perhaps the political incentive is to use the land crisis in order to get money from abroad. Or perhaps the public and government officials have not been informed about the rent-tax alternative. Certainly the leaders of the USA and Europe as well as the news media can be faulted too for not explaining and advocating this just economic solution to the crisis. Some Zimbabweans are seeking to leave the country as events slide into chaos.
Thousands try to smuggle themselves into South Africa as the economy deteriorates.
If ever there was a case showing how sharing rent can prevent and solve a social problem, the Zim land crisis is a prime example. Your name Your email address Check this box if you'd like to receive occasional Economic Justice Updates via email. No more than one every three weeks on average. Copyright 2000 by Fred E. Foldvary. All rights reserved.