Jambanja – The true life story of a Zimbabwean farmer
The purpose of documenting this heartsearing reality is to give voice to the hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans who have lost everything. – Eric “Harry” Harrison, farmer and author of Jambanja
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| “War veterans” storming Eric Harrison’s farm Maioio, in Zimbabwe 2004. Photo: Eric Harrison |
Parked in his drive was a small blue utility truck, which had ghosted in unheard, with two armed policemen sitting in the back and four occupants in the front.
Harry could see that the newcomers were not here for a social visit. In the background stood Harry’s old security guard Joseph, dressed in his faded denim overalls and looking very sheepish. Usually, under no circumstances would anyone get through that gate, unless he reported to Harry first but, there wasn’t much the guard could have done when he had an AK rifle held to his head.
The apparent leader of this group was a short, stocky, well-dressed individual wearing a floppy white hat and ambled over to where Harry was standing on the back veranda. Harry felt Joan come to his side, her hand gripping his wrist.
He didn’t say a word as Whitehat stepped forward
“We are the new owners of Maioio Farm,” he said menacingly, as he pointed to the other three.
“You have got 24 hours to get off – now move it!”[…]