The Harare-based Commercial Farmers Union on Tuesday accused Zimbabwean police of being reluctant to protect farmers from invasions.

Four farmers and their families were chased from their homes during the festive season.

The union's Deon Theron said police drag their feet when their supposed to intervene, especially when high profile politicians are suspected of being behind the evictions.

Meanwhile, Special Adviser to President Jacob Zuma on International Relations Lindiwe Zulu made assurances that progress was being made in Zimbabwe.

Zulu was part of a delegation of three, facilitating negotiations between Zimbabwe's leaders in a bid to iron out differences in the Movement for Democratic Change and Zanu PF power-sharing government there.

Other facilitators include African National Congress heavy weights Mac Maharaj and Charles Nqakula.

Zulu said they are hopeful.

"We are not saying we are happy with the speed at which they are working but we have seen progress because there are a number of things they have agreed on," said Zulu.