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Context and background Umoja, is the Swahili philosophy of unity. Its principles underscore the significance of cooperation and communal solidarity. Umoja has historically been associated with various aspects of African social and political life, accentuating the influence of communal synergy in traditional land tenure systems. The Umoja philosophy encourages individuals to consider collective-wellbeing as being complementary to individual interests, thereby fostering a profound sense of social responsibility in traditional approaches to land holding. In contemporary African society, Umoja continues to wield substantial influence in facilitating social cohesion and the establishment of robust and supportive communities. Notwithstanding, the principles of Umoja remain relatively uncharted in the context of modern approaches to land reform policies. Goal and Objectives: The primary objective of this paper entails an in-depth examination of prevailing land tenure systems throughout the African continent, with a concurrent aspiration to formulate a novel land-holding system that harmoniously integrates with and encapsulates the diverse cultural and contextual intricacies inherent in Africa. At its core, this endeavor seeks to leverage the proposed land-holding framework as a catalyst, with the ultimate ambition of elevating substantial segments of the African populace from multidimensional poverty to a state of enduring prosperity. Methodology: The methodological approach employs a secondary analysis, focusing on African communal land and resource management case studies. The paper assesses their achievements and shortcomings, emphasizing the 'Gestion de Terroir' model in West Africa and the less successful Community Land Trust Experiment in Voi, Kenya. Drawing from successful and unsuccessful cases, the paper develops a comprehensive blueprint for effective communal land tenure systems, guided by Elinor Ostrom's principles for successful management of communal resources and the principle of Umoja, for equitable and sustainable land management in Africa. Results The findings from this study highlight critical issues within existing communal land systems across Africa. Specifically, the primary challenges identified are the absence of formalized communal land titles, as well as issues stemming from the inability of attempted communal land holding projects to align with local idiosyncrasies, capacities, and objectives. Consequently, this paper formulates a novel communal land tenure system for the African context, synthesizing these lessons to create a more sustainable approach that bridges the gap between formalization and local adaptability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background In recent years, there has been a notable resurgence of medium-scale commercial farms in Africa. However, scholarly focus on their capacity to drive structural transformation, promote inclusivity, empower communities, generate wealth, and enhance livelihoods has been limited. Specifically examining the Zimbabwean context, this article contends that medium-scale farms play pivotal roles in production, social reproduction, income generation, commercialisation, investment and capital accumulation. These contributions have been significant in facilitating structural transformation, wealth generation, and improved livelihoods. Goal and Objectives: The paper is primarily concerned with exploring the extent to which mediumscale commercial agriculture contributes to structural transformation, wealth creation and enhanced livelihoods in the Zimbabwean and wider African context. Methodology: The paper utilized a mixed methods research approach comprising of a survey and in-depth interviews which targeted 200 resettled households in two rural districts in Zimbabwe. Results: Medium-scale farms possess the ability to play a role in structural transformation, wealth generation, and improved livelihoods. Factors such as land access, a supportive macroeconomic and policy environment, robust and inclusive land governance, and efficient administrative institutions hold promise in addressing and mitigating the challenges related to poverty, disenfranchisement, marginalization, and inequalities in power and resource allocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: Multi-stakeholder platforms (MSP) for inclusive people-centred land governance are increasingly recognized as central mechanisms for countries to find sustainable solutions to complex land tenure issues. MSPs create an inclusive forum where actors can discuss problems and propose solutions to improve governance of tenure and provide better access to natural resources. The establishment of MSPs to address land tenure issues are also key recommendations expressed in normative frameworks on land tenure at regional, continental or international levels. These include the Framework and Guidelines on Land Policy in Africa (F&G) adopted in 2009, and the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security (VGGT) adopted in 2012. Over the past decade, several countries in the continent have successfully adopted new land legislation. Goal and Objectives: The goal of this paper is to demonstrate how MSPs can contribute to inclusive and participatory land reforms processes in view of securing tenure rights especially for the most vulnerable. It also contributes to address the challenges faced by these platforms in engaging key actors including the government, private sector and the most vulnerable constituencies at community level, towards addressing land issues systemically and achieve transformative change. Methodology: This paper is the result of a light qualitative ex-post evaluation of the approaches developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Land Coalition (ILC) and other partners in the field of land governance over the last 15 years. The paper also builds on desk/literature review that helped gathering needed information on land policy issues and processes. Results: MSPs have contributed to the adoption and implementation of ground-breaking policies and laws, including the National Land Policy of DRC (2021), the Community Land Rights Act (2022) and the National Land Commission Act (2022) in Sierra Leone; the Land Code (2018) in Togo, the Land Rights Act in Liberia (2018). MSPs provide a constructive space for dialogue, coordination, capacity building and collective action to link up efforts from grassroots to national level. They also contribute to addressing power imbalances and strengthening capacities and accountability of government and private actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Sustainable growth and development in Africa will continue to depend mainly on how land and land-related resources are secured, used, and managed, which is extremely important for the socio-economic development of women and men. Equitable land rights support the eradication of poverty, increase food security, and respond to climate change. However, women's land rights are strongly gendered across many regions of the globe, especially in Africa, where access to and control over land and productive resources is affected by customary norms, usually discriminatory against women. Goal and Objectives: This paper focuses on Mozambique's legal reform and institutional capacity-building efforts, with special attention to social institutions, to promote equitable land rights and enhance land tenure security. It is based on specific practices in documenting customary and statutory access, control, and ownership of land, considering both the ongoing legal reform and the systematic land registration program the country has been promoting over the past decade. This paper intends to document these efforts and good practices so that they can be used as a reference and others can benefit from them. Methodology: The research follows a pragmatic value-driven philosophy, focusing on practical solutions and outcomes to improve future practice, taking gender inequality in land access as a starting point. The approach to theory development is abductive, moving from theory to data (deduction) and from data to theory (induction). Multi-methods, qualitative and quantitative, are used to ensure a richer approach. Results: Mozambique's legal framework has been reformed to accommodate several improvements related to gender equality. The family and the succession laws, are a clear break from the past merely patriarchal vision cemented in inequality. The recently approved land policy and the land law provide gender equality and protection of women's land rights. The Constitution and the land law recognize legal pluralism, having statutory and customary norms co-existing in land management and land administration, provided that the Constitution is not violated. Mozambique launched a massive systematic land registration, having designed and implemented its Fit-For-Purpose Land Administration approach, formatted to the country's context, intertwining three pillars: people, processes, and technology. There are still challenges to overcome, mainly due to complexity, contradictions, and overlaps within legal pluralism, as sometimes traditional and cultural norms prevent women from accessing, controlling, or owning land and participating in decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: The blockchain technology is as a new technology in vogue that is virtually getting a swift application in most important art world transactions. This is due to its public distributed, transparent, accountable, traceable and safe, ledger database, also is the advantage to secure a successful transaction without a third party. As the world keeps growing in the knowledge and the adoption of the technology, it is very important to practically explore the opportunities in this technology to combat the security and copyright problems facing land ownership transactions in the Cadastre system. Goal and Objectives: The goal of this paper is to practically access the possibility of engaging the blockchain technology in land administration and ownership systems while the objective is to convert legal instrument(s) into cryptographic readable data. Methodology: This was done by minting survey plans template into Non-Fungible Token. Two blockchains (Solana and CORE blockchains) were considered to show the possibility of adopting the technology in land administration and ownership systems. The selection was based on their flexibility, Scalability and the potentials to solve the trilemma blockchain problems. A survey plan template called DEMO (no real) was created for this purpose. Transactions on the FONE network Art NFT marketplace built on Solana blockchain was examined while an art NFT of survey plan template was minted on the Youngparrot NFT marketplace built on CORE blockchain. Results: The transactions were completed and the survey plan was successfully minted on the Core blockchain. the minting and transaction records are available and can be traced on the public blockchain ledger. Due to this advantage, this paper urges the consideration to take advantage of the possibilities and positivity of the technology in Land Administration sector and land ownership system and also provides steps to achieving its successful adoption. In addition, this is not a financial advice but a research work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and Background: The specialised land court in Zambia is known as the Lands Tribunal, and it was created in 1996 through the 1995 Lands Act. The Tribunal was established with the objective of achieving speedy, low cost, flexible and efficient means of settling conflicts over land. Inspite of being existence for 27 years, little has been done on the progress and challenges of the Lands Tribunal in resolving conflicts over land in the country. Goal and Objectives: This paper aims at establishing the progress made by the Lands Tribunal in resolving conflicts over land and investigating the challenges faced by the Lands Tribunal in resolving conflicts over land. Methodology: The study incorporated the use of both primary and secondary data collected between January and October 2023. Secondary data were obtained through documents which include peer-reviewed journal articles, theses, books, media, Zambian land laws, and technical reports. Secondary data was supplemented by primary data obtained from three purposively selected institutions: Lands Tribunal, Law Association of Zambia, and Zambia Land Alliance (Kitwe office). The data collection method used with the key informants was in-depth face-to-face interviews. Office management at each institution chose the key informant based on their expertise and experience on the subject. Results: In order to strengthen the Tribunal's operations, the Lands Tribunal Act of 2010 was enacted, enhancing the Tribunal's operations by granting it more authority and responsibilities (that is, expanding jurisdiction). Research findings showed that between 2014 and 2023, the Lands Tribunal handled 3318 cases. According to research findings, if the Tribunal was operating efficiently and effectively, it could have handled more than 3,318 cases between 2014 and 2022 considering the numerous problems facing the general courts which adversely affect the general public to resolve their land conflicts. However, the Tribunal could not handle more cases because of various challenges which include inadequate funding, Inadequate staff, poor conditions of service for members of the Tribunal, inadequate transport, delay in the delivery of judgments, low public awareness of the Lands Tribunal, centralised operations of the Lands Tribunal, and forum shopping [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: The existence, survival and continuity of a number of income-generating activities (farming, mining, etc.) depend on land, making it an important lever for a country's development. However, if land is not properly managed and governed, this can leave the door wide open to various forms of embezzlement, including corruption. Corruption is well known to have a deleterious effect on its victims, and when it affects land tenure and access to land, it can affect more than just a country's economy. It can at the first time undermines a country's ability to trade properly with its neighbors, and hindering the continent's ability to fully harness the benefits of free trade agreements as well. Goal and objectives: In the context of Africa's commitment to promoting industrial development through the development of agriculture and food security, it is vital to talk about issues that could hinder these developments, and more specifically the reaching of the Acceleration of the African Continental Free Trade Area implementation. In this instance, the aim is to talk about land corruption. Readers will be led to reflect into the critical role of addressing and eradicating land corruption as a fundamental prerequisite for the successful implementation of free trade initiatives in Africa, but also to facilitate sustainable economic growth and harmonious regional integration. Methodology: This paper offers a broad panorama of negative impacts of land corruption in Africa, and will be based on the experience and lessons of anti-corruption strategies deployed on the land sector in Madagascar. Through an in-depth analysis of the existing challenges, far-reaching consequences, and potential solutions, this work elucidates the paramount importance of curbing land corruption to foster sustainable economic growth, regional integration across the continent and African Continental Free Trade Area’s swift and sustainable implementation. Results: How does corruption affect the land tenure system? What impact does it have? Why and how is it incompatible with the objectives of the African continental free trade area? What can be done to tackle it, based on experience from Madagascar and extended to the African context? This paper gives inputs to those burning questions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Multidimensional Poverty (MP) considers poverty in multiple dimensions of deprivations such as health, education, energy, the standard of living and access to basic services. MP remains a major challenge in Africa, with a large proportion of the population living in MP. According to United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Africa has shown the highest Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) having over 40% of its population living in MP. Goal and Objectives: This paper is a review, aimed at assessing the potential of the integration of satellite and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in mapping MP, with a specific focus on Africa. Methodology: Based on the reviews of past studies, the combination of satellite data such as nighttime light, daytime satellite imagery and high-resolution settlement data in combination with techniques such as field surveys, statistical correlation models (transfer learning) and AI (deep learning) has been applied in mapping MP. Results: The findings from studies show that the combination of satellite data and AI has the capability of providing more accurate and granular MP maps, compared to the traditional approach. Again, this paper explains the concept of MP with a specific focus on Africa and presents a map depicting the current MPI in African countries. Finally, pitfalls especially in the accuracy, granularity and frequency of MP data were identified. Consequently, the satellite and AI approaches are recommended for more accurate, frequent, cost-effective and granular data, required in mapping poverty and design of interventions that effectively address the needs of the vulnerable populations in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background A global land rush -driven by a variety of factors-is driving transformative change in African rural communities that depend on land for their livelihoods. This increased demand has resulted in the acquisition of large areas of land on the continent. While the pace and scale of land acquisition may be levelling off,1 in many cases, some or all of the land acquired by investors stands idle.2 Land return- in which a private company legally transfers all or part of its land holdings back to a community or government-is an emerging phenomenon that may be on the rise as companies seek to limit their exposure to risk, governments redesignate lands and communities push for the return of their land. Land return holds promise as a way to correct for overzealous and misguided land acquisition and historical injustices amidst a growing understanding of the value of land to communities. Goal and Objective Yet land return presents challenges, many of which may be unexpected. Though existing frameworks and guidelines regarding responsible investments require effective community consultation, there is less clarity and limited guidance on what risks, mitigation strategies, and tools are needed to safeguard the rights of communities in the context of land return. Methodology This paper brings forward experience from a recent land return process in Tanzania in which Landesa and its partners worked to identify and put into practice standards and approaches that protect community rights while supporting a company's efforts to comply with best practices, national and international requirements and expectations for responsible corporate practice. The tools and processes tested and shared through this project align with efforts to support implementation of the Acceleration of the African Continental Free Trade Areas (AfCFTA) and achieve the aspiration of the Africa We Want (Agenda 2063). Results: This paper highlights the importance of inclusive and transparent land governance practices by presenting a case study of Landesa's experience working with a forestry company to engage with communities and local land administration to understand needs and expectations around the companys intention to return approximately 14,000 hectares of land. The case study will highlight land return-related risks, present a model for community benefit sharing arrangements, and will share lessons learned, highlighting potential best practices that companies holding idle land might consider and employ to reallocate to landscarce communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background The incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into businesses has become increasingly widespread in recent years, particularly in developed countries, fundamentally reshaping the landscape of entrepreneurship and innovation. AI presents numerous opportunities for small businesses, including those involved in cross-border trade. It has the potential to transform various aspects of business operations, such as customer interactions, marketing research, understanding consumer behavior, optimizing routes, and forecasting sales and marketing trends. Additionally, AI can contribute to the formalization of business processes, and assist these businesses in adapting more effectively to the ever-changing dynamics of the market. However, the successful implementation of AI necessitates a meticulous assessment of AI applications to ensure alignment with the objectives and resources of each individual small business. Goal and Objectives: The primary focus of this paper is to explore the potential of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing Africa's cross-border trade. The paper will address the following research questions: What are the effective applications of artificial intelligence in cross-border informal trade in Africa, and what are the limitations? What does the future hold for African countries in terms of utilizing artificial intelligence for cross-border trade? How can African informal cross-border traders and their stakeholders benefit from incorporating artificial intelligence in their activities? Methodology: The research is purely empirical research based on observation and measurement of phenomena, as directly experienced by the researcher. Results: AI can be effectively applied by Informal Cross-Border Traders (ICBT) to enhance their businesses and enhance competitiveness. There are several AI applications accessible to ICBT within their operational context. Although the adoption and utilization of AI in Africa are still in their infancy, there is considerable promise for the future. Africans must address the challenges hindering the adoption and utilization of AI, as technology is advancing rapidly, and opportunities await those who embrace it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Contract farming has been promoted as a more 'inclusive business model' in which local smallholder farmers can participate in and benefit from the wider benefits of investments in rural areas such as infrastructure development (power supply, roads, water supply), spillovers from increased incomes and, in some cases, mandatory development of education and health facilities. Contract farming models could have a positive impact on agricultural development and innovation in developing countries. Contract farming creates a system that links smallholder farmers with domestic and international buyers. Contract farming could secure existing local land rights of smallholder farmers by continuing farming on their land, promoting investments by investors and fostering the commercialization of smallholder farmers. Contract farming could enhance local food security. However, contract farming models do not always have a positive impact. Sometimes contractors make a profit without supporting or, sometimes, exploiting contracted smallholders. Goal and Objectives: The primary focus of this paper is to analyze the impact of contract farming on household food security. The paper will address the following research questions: What are the determinant factors that affect participation in contract farming? and What is the impact of contract farming on household food security in Kenya and Madagascar? Methodology: This study used three internationally recognized food security indicators to measure the food security status of the household: household dietary diversity score (HDDS), food consumption score (FCS) and the months of adequate household food provisioning (MAHFP). This study used an endogenous switching regression (ESR) model to estimate the impact of contract farming on household food security. The research is purely empirical research is based on observation and measurement of phenomena, as directly experienced by the researcher Results: AI can be effectively applied by Informal Cross-Border Traders (ICBT) to enhance their businesses and enhance competitiveness. There are several AI applications accessible to ICBT within their operational context. Although the adoption and utilization of AI in Africa are still in their infancy, there is considerable promise for the future. Africans must address the challenges hindering the adoption and utilization of AI, as technology is advancing rapidly, and opportunities await those who embrace it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines how the zoning concepts and urban planning space standards adopted from colonial administration are implemented on the actual ground. Most cities in developing counties apply planning standards and concepts which are inherited from Europe or North America, Tanzania inclusive. Planning and design concepts that segregate residential, commercial and industrial activities and impose low densities that require large areas of urban land, and impose high transport and environmental costs and inhibit opportunities for local economic initiatives which can help lift communities out of poverty. Development control policies are also frequently based on imported or inherited norms, rather than traditional practices and local climatic conditions. Despite the existence of the inherited planning concepts and standards, however, little is known whether such concepts and standards are implemented on the actual ground and achieved. Goal and Objectives: The overall objective of this study is to examine whether the planning concepts and space standards inherited from colonial administration are implemented and achieved on the ground and the resulting effects on pedestrian mobility. Methodology: The study adopted descriptive research design of which data collection techniques involved case study, interviews, observations and surveys. A combination of methods were used during the fieldwork, including expert interviews to identify areas inside the case study block for in-depth survey, followed by intensive surveys, and use inventory and semi-structured interviews with residents. A total of 25 residents were purposely selected for in-depth interviews. Results: Fieldwork results reveal that the concept of zoning density plots according to incomes i.e. high, medium and low density plots to accommodate the low, middle and high income earners respectively is not fully implemented and it is outdated as it does not reflect the post-colonial reality. Likewise, the concepts of designating special land use per area such as pure residential, commercial, residential cum commercial, institutional or industrial areas, where no other uses are allowed are inappropriate today as they don't reflect the urban reality. The existing development in the study area seemed to be a kind of mixed use development. Violations of minimum setbacks and plot coverage in the study area were prevailing. The planned public open spaces or road reserves were mainly used for commercial, office, religious site and parking activities instead of green areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Goal and Objectives: This paper examined the relations between informal documentations and land tenure security on change in land use/cover. Using Chamuka land registration, the paper focuses on caused of land use/cover change and how informal documents-based land dealings leads to tenure security and a more productive land use. Methodology: The study used various methods, including 345 households' interviews, group discussions and satellite images of 2010, 2015 and 2020, to understand how land ownership in Chamuka chiefdom effect on land use. Results: The study results shows that the introduction of Land Advisory Boards (LABs), Customary Certificate of Land Occupancy (CCLO) and the land register has scored several successes (i.e., increase in land rights, ownership, low cost of land registration, tenure security and reduction in land-related conflicts. Other improvements include the practice of conservation farming, i.e. agroforestry, fire management resulting to improved crop and livestock farming. Despite these positive results, the satellite images showed decline in vegetation and forest cover due to expansion of agricultural area, buildup and decrease in water bodies. This study provides new insights into how the evolution of the traditional land tenure system, as an integral part of resource governance, its effect on land use/cover. Next to suggesting is how to strengthen informal documents, and efficiency of local land management institutions in order to reduce loss of vegetation and deforestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land conflicts remain the major character of informal settlements in urban areas. Goal and Objectives This paper explores the nature and characteristics of land conflicts in areas with informal settlements as experienced from regularization projects in Tanzania. Methodology The study used field observations to collect data on boundary conflicts and household interviews to collect data on border conflicts, land use conflicts, and ownership conflicts. The data was collected through a combination of primary and secondary methods. The focus discussion was conducted with members of the Mtaa Regularisation Committee for different sub-wards. Results The study discovered that the major types of land conflicts in informal settlements include boundary conflicts, land use conflicts, inheritance conflicts, accessibility conflicts, sales, and transfer of ownership. Boundary conflicts remain the main form of conflict appearing in informal settlements. Regularization of informal settlements is now seen as a tool to address the problem of informal settlement conflicts in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background African countries have undertaken vast and increasingly ambitious initiatives in recent years to promote land registration in order to secure land tenure and ownership rights. In theory, recognition of property rights should boost agricultural productivity and food security. However, empirical evidence of the link between land security, agricultural productivity and the food security of households remains ambiguous Goal and Objectives: It is against this backdrop that this research aims to study the effect of land tenure security on agricultural productivity and food security of farm households, based on evidence from Togo, and then by extension to ECOWAS countries. More specifically, it aims to (i) identify the determinants of land tenure security of farm households, (ii) analyze the effect of land tenure security on agricultural productivity and food security of farm household by gender. Methodology: The paper relies on Oaxaca and Blinder's decomposition technique and its nonlinear extension with the Propensity Score Matching Method (PSM) for robustness with data mainly from the Harmonized Households Living Conditions Survey (EHCVM) of Togo and selected ECOWAS countries realized in 2018-2019. Results: Empirical results reveal that being a woman reduces the probability of obtaining a document securing one's plot of land. However, the human capital of the head of household increases the probability of holding a land title. They reveal gender-based inequalities in agricultural productivity and food insecurity among farming households. However, holding a title deed to secure one's plot of land is expected to reduce this inequality by improving agricultural productivity and food security among farming households. The results confirm the need to develop land markets to facilitate the transfer of land, as part of measures to improve agricultural productivity and household food security in ECOWAS countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Land Monitoring is critical for continuous implementation of land reforms and general growth and development in the sector. It guides the deployment of policy by identifying and highlighting the fundamental problems affecting sustainable land development. Kenya in the recent past, has been involved in land monitoring activities including Land Governance Assessment Framework (LGAF) by the World Bank and the Global Land Indicators Initiative (GLII) by UN Habitat. The reporting under these monitoring activities have been affected by unavailability of data. Goal and Objectives: The objectives of the exercise were: to establish the existence of comprehensive policies and extent to which the policy formulation process is consultative; Determine the extent of land tenure security and proportion of women and men with legally recognized documentation; Establish the extent of land disputes and the access to effective resolution; Establish the efficiency of land administration services and generation of revenue by government from the land services; and Determine the capacity of land administration systems and determine sustainability of land use. Methodology: The exercise was carried out by a multi-agency National Land Monitoring Working Group (NLMWG) whose membership was drawn from technical staff from the various Government Agencies in Kenya. The basis of data collection was a land monitoring framework with the six indicators areas. Secondary data from administrative sources was collected and key informant interviews were carried among the land registrars, surveyors, physical planners, valuers, land adjudicators and judiciary registrars. The quantitative data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis, narrative analysis and framework analysis. Results: The total area of land under cadastral maps/land information system was approximately 11,288,916.12 ha, representing 19.38 % of the total land area. The exercise further established that 1.58 % of the total filed court cases were land related in 2021/2022. In the same year, 2.17 % and 2.60 % of resolved and pending respectively of the total court cases were land related. The exercise further established that forest land decreased by 0.5 percent (255,851 ha) between the year 2008 and 2018. The data indicated that 10 out of 47 Counties (21.27 %) have prepared and approved County Physical and Land Use Plans. The exercise recommended the need to disaggregate land related data at the point of collection, design and fund new strategies for collection and managing data, develop National Land use/Land cover mapping and modernize land information management to allow for easier collection, collation, storage and dissemination of land information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Flooding in Dar es Salaam is greatly contributed by the overall increase in daily rainfall amounts, generally identified as rainfall variability which contributes to the overall climate change. Climate change adaptation is the spearhead initiative towards moderating the potential damages associated with actual or anticipated changes in climate. Through variety of options, urban land use planning has emerged as among the options towards climate change adaptation implementation. Goal and Objectives: This study aimed at exploring the existing efforts and prospects for integrating climate change adaptation into urban land use planning in the rapid urbanizing city of Dar es Salaam. Methodology: Teta and Sokoni subwards were selected as case studies where review of documents, field observation, geospatial mapping, household surveys and key informant interviews were the data collection methods used. QGIS, SPSS and Global Mapper were the main softwares utilized in analyzing the data obtained. Results: Findings demonstrate that the preparation of detail planning schemes, construction of stormwater drainage and implementation of building codes are the most appealing efforts executed towards enhancing climate change adaptation through urban land use planning. The notable prospects towards enhancing climate change adaption through urban land use planning are mainly technological advancement, supportive legal frameworks and robust involvement of actors. It was also identified that, urban land use planning isn't a stand-alone component contributing to overall climate change adaptation hence other components such as; adaptation measures, institutional framework, resources and capacities were vital in the integration process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Access to land by Women is a topic that is considered as the property rights issue that is prominence around the World. Land is important for the economy, politics, livelihood, culture and development of the people. Goal and Objectives This study specifically assesses the situation of women's land rights ownership in Tarime District and the effects of socio-cultural factors influencing women's rights to land ownership in Tarime District. Methodology: This study adopted mixed method research design. The design allowed the study to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. The target population for the study were household heads, women and government officials dealing with land. The study applied random sampling to select a sample size of 109 respondents who were the heads of households. To get qualitative data, six (6) key informants for interviews were selected purposively who were the ward land committee members, the magistrate, and the district land officials. The study used two methods of data collection which were key informant interviews and household survey to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Data analysis used for quantitative data was descriptive statistics while for qualitative data, content analysis (conceptual and relational) was used to determine the perceptions and attitudes of the respondents on socio-cultural factors which determined women's rights to land ownership in the study district. Results The findings showed that cultural practices were the major barriers to women's access to, control over and land ownership. The study concludes that women who freely owned land were economically more productive than those who did not and there were positive effects on poverty reduction among women who had access to land ownership. Hence, this made them independent in income generation and provision of support to their families and the community in general. The study recommends that the central government, NGOs and local government authority should sensitize and capacitate women on issues of land ownership rights and property ownership. Also, inclusive programs should target both women and men in the community, by emphasizing on the importance of gender equality and equity in land ownership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries community participation in master planning is given less attention due to the pair of factors among of them being the top down planning tradition of bureaucrats, centralised planning system, low level of local community participation, shelving community self-initiatives, lack of implementation capacity and consensus building. In Tanzania, despite stakeholders' participation in master planning and implementation is being emphasised in the Urban Planning Act No 8 of 2007; participation in planning process is reported to be very low coupled with lack of honest mediation and inclusion of all stakeholders in the planning and implementation processes. Goal and objectives The need to move from conventional to participatory planning approach among other factors was to increase sense of ownership and incorporate local knowledge in spatial plans. however, there are limited justifications on how stakeholders participated in preparation of the Dodoma master plan of 2019. this study contributes to ontological knowledge of the communicative planning theory and Aronstein ladder of citizen participation from the point of view of the ineffective communication and power relation among stakeholders. the study explores whether stakeholders' participation was genuine by analyzing how they were mapped, informed, educated and means through which transparent decision making was ensured throughout the process. Methodology: Mixed research methods were adopted whereby qualitative data were collected from officials, focus group discussion participants and key informants' interviews through in-depth interviews in order to grasp in-depth information. quantitative data were collected from landowners using structured questionnaire so as to get the feedback how they participated in the process. Thematic analysis was used whereby different themes were created based on deductive variables narrated from theories and literature review. quantitative data was analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS). Results: The results showed that there was ineffective stakeholders' participation particularly to the landowners and local community. this was contributed by low level of facilitation from officials from the capital city of the Dodoma which resulted to lack of extensive stakeholders' participation. the study recommends proper mapping of stakeholders, timely and widely information dissemination in a transparency way and raise awareness campaigns about master plan to multifarious stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Land conflicts are evident across African countries arising from competing land interests among land conflict stakeholders. Understanding the interests, beliefs, and roles these stakeholders play in protecting their land rights is fundamental to effective land conflict management. Goal and Objectives: The study investigates the nature of land conflicts in Oyo State, Nigeria, vis-a-vis the roles played by stakeholders, with a view to providing useful information that could enhance effective land conflict management. Methodology: Using a case study approach and mixed methods of data collection, the study analysed the data through thematic and narrative analysis. Results: Findings revealed that the interests and beliefs of stakeholders determine the forms, stages, intensity, and resolution of land conflicts in Oyo state. These land conflicts differ between rural and urban areas, with certain forms and stakeholders being common in each. However, urban areas have diverse forms of conflict, and stakeholders play significant roles as actors and resolvers of land conflict. The significance of land as people's identity and generational heritage led people to engage in physical fights, killing and property destruction to defend it. To reduce land conflict, stakeholders' interests and roles need to be considered in land conflict management decision-making. Therefore, involving stakeholders in decision-making and implementing a workable framework is important for land conflict management success in Oyo state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Specific focus was on Kwitete village in Serengeti District in Mara Region, Tanzania, where the District Council initiated a village land use planning process, but never took it to the end. The abandoned villagers managed to use the half done plan to start implementing it and in a number of ways they succeeded not only to minimize conflicts, but also to reap some economic gains. Specifically, the study aimed to document in-detail the participatory process by which planning and plan implementation went through; and to examine the effectiveness of the plan in reducing conflicts between farmers and herders. Goal and Objectives: The overall objective of this study is to explore experiences of villagers' initiatives in minimizing conflicts between crop growers and herders through participatory village land use planning. Specifically to document in-detail the participatory process by which planning and plan implementation went through; and to examine the effectiveness of the plan in reducing conflicts between farmers and herders. Methodology: The study is an output of a single case strategy on how the villagers went about to manage and implement their village land use plan. On methodological fronts; literature review (files, minutes and letters), transect walks, resource mapping, observation, photographing, Focus Group Discussion, Key Informant interview and household interview for quantifiable data formed the key methods of data collection. Results: The study has revealed that when villagers accept with sincerity to participate in a planning process to solve problems affecting their livelihood, they are likely to carry out the process and use their available resources to ensure success. Village leaders who were in the leadership at the initial planning stage have been more active than those who joined the leadership later. They have been able to mobilize fellow villagers to widen cattle routes, dig a charco dam and construct a cattle dip in accordance with the village land use plan. Widening of the cattle routes and digging a charco dam have helped reduce incidences of conflicts as animals now cannot reach crops easily. Construction of a cattle dip has helped reduce animal diseases. At the centre of success is the leaders' ability to communicate for financial support from different sources and at the same time mobilize their fellow villagers effectively for joint work. They have employed formal and informal governing tools in the process. Formal tools included use of hamlet (Vitongoji) leadership to take leads in getting labour for construction work. Informal tools include the Kurya "Rika"/"Saiga" groups and "Ritongo" to exercise their traditional means of mobilizing their group members and managing communal works; their ability to impose sanctions on offenders and award respect or any traditional objects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: Community participation in master planning and implementation processes in sub-Saharan Africa has been given little attention despite the fact that it increases a sense of ownership and the chances of plans implementation. Methodology: This study firstly, examines community participation practices in master planning and implementation processes in four shifted capital cities of Abuja, Dodoma, Gaborone and Lilongwe and secondly, recommends for policy changes. This study gathered information through literature review whereby a total of one hundred and two (n=102) documents were reviewed. data was analysed using content analysis by identifying the common themes from empirical and theoretical literatures then comparing and synthesising them based on convergence discourses. Results: The results show that bureaucrats' pay less attention to integration of local knowledge coupled with overlooking the socio-economic and cultural aspects of communities in master planning and implementation processes. bureaucrats are reported to embrace western planning concepts and practices paired with ineffective communication, lack of transparency, awareness, an inclusive ideas generation, top-down decision making and power imbalance. the sidelining attitude of community needs and preferences has resulted into polarization of cities into haves and have-nots. This study recommends active engagement of civil societies organizations (CSOS) in planning and implementation processes to act as watchdogs of planning systems. this study further stresses on conducting routine capacity building to bureaucrats to improve community engagement and constant revisit of available legal tools, monitoring and evaluation frameworks to effect community engagement in planning and implementation stages. these findings are worthwhile to policymakers, urban planners and the private sector to prepare plans which are community centered and enhance inclusive and sustainable development in SSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities in Tanzania have been experiencing rapid increase in commercial motorcycles with young people grabbing an opportunity to in a wake of raising unemployment. This has been associated with creation of informal motorcycles parking spaces with existing urban planning not providing specific standards for commercial motorcycle parking spaces. Goal and Objectives The study aimed to explore the challenges of informal motorcycle parking spaces in urban areas. Methodology Structured interviews allowed the collection of statistical data and opinions of motorcyclists on their daily operations of motorcycles. This was conducted with motorcycle drivers and users to get qualitative information. Interviews were used to collect data on criteria used in locating informal parking, activities or land uses that attract motorcyclists to locate parking, operation and management rules on parking, parking challenges facing motorcyclists, services needed at each motorcycle parking, tenure and ownership of motorcycle parking, potential areas for motorcycle parking, acquisition of area for locating motorcycle parking, and the trend of motorcycle informal parking space uses. The observation method was used to identify different locations of motorcycle parking spaces and users of motorcycles at different time intervals. Results The results indicates that informal motorcycle parking spaces in urban areas has been associated with a wide range of challenges such as urban crimes, Lack of formal parking spaces, Lack of motorcycle infrastructure, Encroachment of road reserves, Encroachment of private spaces, Road accidents and Environmental deterioration. This research recommends for integration of motorcycles in formal transport system. Again, geospatial techniques should be used to establish the suitable location for motorcycle parking spaces. The study finally recommends the inclusion of parking spaces in land use plans to ensure sustainable transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and Background Rural land disputes were instigated due to various factors like the increases in population number, scarcity of farm land, poverty, the increase in rural land value, and weak rural land administration system were the indirect causes of rural land disputes and manifested in the forms of boundary disputes, inheritances disputes, transfer of land disputes, access, and ownership disputes. This study indicated the different variant shimglina customary conflict resolution mechanisms are contributing significant role in rural land dispute resolution. Shimglina is Golden peace culture in resolving rural land disputes in preventing destructive conflict violence. The social capital and social solidarity of the community is functional under the umbrella of shimglina and vis versa. Shimglina is vital to resolve conflict and disputes terms of its attachments with the living God, value of perpetual peace, reduce time to decide on the issue, resource, its accessibility to all members of the community, and restoring the broken peaceful interaction. Goal and Objectives The objective of this study is to examine the practices and challenges of customary conflict resolution mechanisms in resolving rural land dispute in the study area. The Goal of this study is providing recommendations for policy makers, community leaders, and land administrators and for peace and land dispute workers. Methodology This study employed qualitative research approach and data were collected using focus group discussion, interviews, and non-participatory observation; and relevant literatures and documents are reviewed. Informants were selected based on purposive and snowball sampling. The total number of informants participated in this study were 201. The data were analyzed through the use of thematic analysis. Results The findings indicated shimglina customary conflict resolution mechanisms played great role in rural land dispute resolution. People prefer it in terms of time, resource, accessibility, and restoring the broken peaceful relationships. Also, the study revealed, shimglina faced many challenges which hinder its effectiveness in the resolution of land use disputes. Lack of attention to shimglina culture of peace by the government, the intervention of government bodies in the process of dispute resolution, the absence of incentives to Shimageles (elders), the influence globalization are the challenges. The government should give attention to shimglina in rural land disputes for peaceful co-existence and community solidarity. Shimageles (elders) play vital roles which include arbitration, mediation, decision making, peace-making, and permit traditional oath and link the living with God. This study recommends; the government should give attention to shimglina culture of peace in rural land use disputes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background With the implementation of Economic liberalization policies in the 1980s and recognition of land markets in the 1990s there has been an increase in competition and Land Resource Conflicts (LRCs) over land in many parts of Tanzania. As a result, the implementation of reforms has been accompanied with statutory multiplicity in land allocation leading to severe LRCs especially in rural areas. Goal and objectives This article examines the nature of LRCs in Tanzania and potential solutions based on juxtaposition of LRCs related theories onto practices in land management in Tanzania. Methodology Workshops were conducted in three regions of mainland Tanzania reaching a total of 210 professionals in forest, environment, Academia and land sectors. Participants' contributions in these workshops were clustered based on concepts derived from resource LRC theories and narratives were interpreted to arrive at the results and conclusion of the study. Results It was noted that since many LRCs emanate from farmers or pastoralists intersection with either farmland or conservation areas i.e., forests, game parks or/and natural ecosystems, these spatial units need to be delineated with proper community participation. Haphazard attempt to exclude one resource user from the other have often turned futile due to corruption and violation detection inability by government authorities. Local communities seem to argue for reducing these conservation areas in favor of expanded agriculture and/or grazing land. It seems however, there is no recipe for LRCs resolution in Tanzania, the cost and benefit of the different approaches need to be evaluated before one can adopt any. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background Availability and accessibility of suitable land are crucial factors for attracting and sustaining land-based investment. Access to land has become a significant concern across various regions and countries in the 21st century, As the world's population continues to grow, so does the demand for land to accommodate urbanization and land-based investment as agriculture and industrial development increases. This escalating pressure on land resources poses numerous challenges, such as overlapping land claims, and conflicts over land rights. In response, different societies have developed a myriad of strategies to gain access to land, influenced by diverse legal, and socio-economic factors. Goal and Objectives: The study aims to analyze current strategies used, impacts and determine the optimal strategy that meets the needs of investors and local communities. Methodology: A Mixed-methods approach was adopted, where both interviews and questionnaires were used. A total of 96 questionnaires were distributed to investors and local people but only 79 qualified responses were good for analysis of this study. The response rate obtained on the distributed questionnaire was 82% of the target population. This sample was obtained using non-probability sampling techniques whereby both snowball and purposive sampling were adopted for the selected sample. Results: Findings reveal that strategies observed were leasing (54%), encompassing individual land leases and government-allocated leases through (TIC). Land purchases constituted 34% while joint ventures accounted for 8%. Likert scale responses highlighted the negative impacts of the strategies, with 90% of participants strongly agreeing that purchasing and leasing led to conflicts, insecurity of tenure, and land grabbing. Similarly, 69% agreed that government allocation resulted in unfair compensation and competition over land resources, favoring investors and leaving limited resources for local communities. Additionally, the analysis reveals that leasing under government allocation is the optimal land access strategy. The study suggests that legal reforms, enhancement of transparency, and equitable land governance systems that prioritize the community's participation in land management [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: This study explored the relevance of smart land governance (SLG) for sustainable development in Nigeria. Generally, land governance plays a critical role in land accessibility, security, economic growth, social equity, and environmental preservation. In fairness, Nigeria has recorded numerous successes in the land governance system. Yet, various deficiencies in the land sector are yet to be addressed, disrupting the system effectiveness. These deficiencies impose insecurity on stakeholders while gradually depreciating national values. Reforming the land sector in a smart way is a recent practice that addresses land governance deficiencies using newly developed technological innovations, which are important to accomplish traditional, political, and social goals. This helps to create an inclusive society through equal and accessible land distribution by reshaping policy instruments, financing mechanisms, rules, protocols, and guidelines that govern land matters using technology tools for sustainable development to prevent harm from the present and future generations. Goal and Objectives: The relevance of smart land governance (SLG) in the study area was examined to enhance stakeholders’ proper decision-making in the land sector to promote sustainable development in Nigeria. The objectives examined; a. how smart land governance could enhance the proper decision making of stakeholders in the land sector; b. the ways smart land governance could promote sustainable development for the present and future generations in Nigeria; and c. develop a framework that could enhance smart land governance. Methodology: The study used quantitative research methods to obtain meaningful and useful information. Purposive, systematic, and stratified research sampling techniques, i.e., mixed methods of data collection and analysis, were used. Primary and secondary data were sourced. 120 questionnaires were distributed, and 108 were retrieved. Key stakeholders who are in strategic positions in both the formal and informal land sector were surveyed. Results: The study revealed that smart land governance (SLG) system in Nigeria is possible but require full stakeholder support to maximize their workability and effectiveness, as it will promote transparency and boast an inclusive society for the benefit of present and future generations. Also, an insight into the benefits of smart land governance (SLG) was presented. A framework to enhance stakeholder and policy-maker decision-making was developed. Hence, it was concluded that an investment in advanced technological implements is necessary to stimulate strategic principles with respect to the principal multidimensional mechanisms of SLG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and Background: In Nigeria, due to the herdsmen-farmers crisis occasioned by climate change and land conflicts, food production has been hampered. The study explores the intricate relationship between climate change, land disputes, and food insecurity in Nigeria, focusing on the escalating crisis between herdsmen and farmers. Against the backdrop of increasing violence and multiplying land conflicts, exacerbated by climate-induced challenges such as floods, droughts, desertification, soil degradation, and water scarcity, this research delves into the profound impact of climate change on the nation's agricultural sector and land use patterns. The study emphasizes the urgent need to address these issues, recognizing climate change as a significant driver of the herdsmen-farmers crisis in Nigeria. Goal and Objectives: The primary goal of the study is to investigate the extent to which climate change contributes to land disputes and food insecurity in Nigeria, using the herdsmenfarmers crisis as a case study. Methodology: The research adopts a comprehensive approach, utilizing data from relevant articles, images, and news stories to analyze the complexities of the herdsmen-farmers crisis in Nigeria. It employs a case study methodology to investigate the impact of climate change on land disputes and food insecurity. Results: The findings underscore the critical role of climate change in exacerbating land conflicts and food insecurity in Nigeria. The study highlights the adverse effects of climate change, such as rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events, on agricultural practices and resource competition. The research proposes workable strategies for resolving land conflicts, emphasizing the enhancement of climate resilience through sustainable land and resource management, inclusive decision-making, and strengthened governance. Furthermore, it suggests the implementation of early warning systems, fostering dialogue, cooperation, and providing alternative livelihood opportunities as crucial steps toward mitigating conflicts and promoting long-term peace and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and Background The master plan of Ibeju-Lekki, developed in 2009, aims to conserve the environment, control urban sprawl, reduce transportation expenses, avoid land use disputes, and minimize pollution exposure. However, inadequate planning has led to the growth of urban sprawl in the area, causing flood and erosion hazards in some communities. Goal and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the spatial distribution of land use types in the master plan, determine the land cover change between the year of master plan production and the present year, and assess the development of Ibeju-Lekki in relation to the master plan. Methodology: The analogue format of the master plan was obtained, georeferenced, and converted into a vector format (ESRI Shapefile) for spatial analysis. Multi-spectral images (Landsat images) were obtained for the years 2009 and 2023 to detect changes in land cover and development in the study area. Results: The results showed that residential land use had the largest spatial extent on the master plan, but it will soon be congested due to increased industries. Built-up areas, bare land, and wetlands increased between 2009 and 2023, while vegetation and water bodies declined. The highest development occurred on residential land use between 2009 and 2023, with unplanned development in fragile and conserved areas like lagoons, green areas, flood basins, open space, and eco-tourism. The study recommends vulnerability assessment of altered areas in the master plan and reevaluation to accommodate the changes occurring in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos State. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and context With the decentralization processes underway in most countries of the Congo Basin, community involvement in decision-making is becoming an imperative, particularly with regard to land and resource management (Beatty, M.T. et al. (1978). To ensure that this involvement results in a clear and sustained expression of community needs, it is important to think of an integrated, free and committed approach to communities in order to promote a dialogue between land management actors (Joe Watts, 1994). Goal and objectives The main goal is to enhance community involvement in the management of lands and natural resources for informed decision making on sustainable investments and trade. The specific objectives are to firstly depict the importance and approaches to conducting community participatory mapping and land use planning and secondly to showcase community’s use of mapping and planning approaches to sustainably manage natural resources and protect their cultural values, effectively negotiate large scale investments, and make decisions on their lands and resources. Methodology Thus, through participatory mapping of community customary land use and tenure, a facilitating accompaniment to local land-use planning is made on the basis of an assessment of socio-spatial data. It is a cross-sectional analysis of land use data, agricultural-climatic-ecological factors and future needs that allows the establishment of scenarios based on development objectives through the use of participatory diagnostic tools (problem tree, venn diagram). Results The result shows that participatory planning is an approach dedicated to the sustainable management of resources by local communities. With the diversification of land uses due to the presence of large projects, traditional modes or visions of sustainable land management need to be maintained. The land tenure of the Upper Balong clan in the commune of Nguti is occupied by 65% of land allocations that conflict with the activities of local people. These land allocations do not integrate the local vision of land use with the changes in land use, the needs of the people for local development and those of future populations. There is a risk of land shortages for the conservation of cultural values and communities risk losing their potential biodiversity (NTFPs). The uses proposed in the scenarios for reorienting the allocation of resources beneficial to communities take into account regional and sectoral strategies for harmonization with national development needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and background: This study argues that government schemes to serve petty traders in Tanzania remain unsustainable mostly due to poor consideration of the impact the socioeconomic linkage has on location determinants. Goal and Objectives: This research aimed to understand how the articulation of petty trading operations with larger traders, directly or indirectly, influences location decisions. Methodology: The core of this research was based on a case study approach that involved surveys of petty traders and interviews with large-scale traders at the Mwenge trading center, along with documents review. Results: Petty traders select locations that maximize functioning as an economic enterprise and moderate survival risks. That is, the location of the trade is selected based on social ties, but the petty traders' success depends on economic links established with larger traders, from whom they get their merchandise, and over which they have very little control. The implications of these findings are: the level of articulation that governs location decisions, drags down the sustainability of government schemes, and gives rise to serious damage to the urban fabric; and two, the analysis of backward linkages combined with other location determinants provides the background against which the petty trading spaces identification, planning and designing could be analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]