Tanzania begins process to establish e-land system

ARUSHA: THE Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, through the Department of Human Settlements Development, is conducting a three-day meeting for Urban Planners from various regions to build their capacity and better prepare them to perform their duties professionally.

The meeting, taking place in Arusha from September 1 to 3, 2025, involves training sessions and discussions on work ethics, guidelines for urban planning and implementation, the importance of land use inspections, and the process of approving urban plans through the electronic land system (e-land).

The Department of Human Settlements Development plays a vital role in ensuring proper urban planning and supervising sustainable development control to promote the orderly growth of towns and cities.

During the opening of the meeting, Deogratias Kalimenze, Director of Human Settlements Development, urged the Urban Planners to take their responsibilities seriously as they are entrusted with ensuring that communities live in safe and conducive environments.

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“We have the responsibility to ensure people live in good environments. Our plans guide how people live, work, access employment, how resources are conserved for future generations, and how energy is utilized,” Kalimenze said.

He further emphasized that urban planning is a unique and critical responsibility assigned to Urban Planners, which they must protect with high expertise and professionalism.

“The responsibility given to Urban Planners nationwide is significant, and to execute it well, you must exhibit high professionalism, discipline, and adhere to laws, regulations, and procedures established to guide daily operations, so as not to cause harm to those you are tasked to provide safe living environments,” Kalimenze added.

The meeting will also include an assessment of the budget implementation for the fiscal year 2024/2025, alongside a review of land regularization activities across the country.

Additionally, participants will present papers on topics including the service delivery system of the Board for Registration of Urban Planning Professionals, a draft of planning standards and land use categories regulations, as well as discussions on mental health and the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace.

This meeting represents a crucial step toward ensuring that Urban Planners continue to improve their effectiveness in managing sustainable urban development in Tanzania.