The High Court has ruled in favor of Landela Safari Adventure (PVT) Limited in its protracted legal battle with the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) over rental collections from a complex in Victoria Falls.
The Victoria Falls Trading Post (Private) Limited, Dedication Collections (Private) Limited, Victoria Falls Adventures (Private) Limited, and NRZ were named as respondents in Landela’s High Court application for spoliatory and injunction relief following a dispute with NRZ.
Judge Siyabona Musithu of the High Court dismissed NRZ’s preliminary objections, holding that the lease agreement did not bar the court from providing Landela with remedy. Landela’s right to defend its interests was emphasised by Justice Musithu, who also emphasised the company’s interest in NRZ matters and its controlling investment in Victoria Falls Trading Post.
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The judge further suggested a violation of contract by pointing out that NRZ accepted rental payments from renters even though it acknowledged that lease agreements existed with Victoria Falls Trading Post. He advised Landela to take the tenants to court to recover the money they owed to NRZ.
Justice Musithu further underlined how crucial it is to adhere to the arbitral procedure specified in the Landela and NRZ agreement. Landela Safari Adventure
A joint business agreement encompassing Victoria Falls Trading Post, Dedication Collections, and Victoria Falls Adventure is the source of the conflict between Landela and NRZ. In 1998, Landela developed commercial structures and leased premises from NRZ, with a rental income distribution between the parties.
The High Court’s decision represents a major win for Landela in its ongoing legal struggle with NRZ over the management of the Victoria Falls complex, despite NRZ’s denial of locking out tenants and doubting Landela’s legal standing.
