Optimism high as govt launches National Land Policy

DODOMA: AS President Samia Suluhu Hassan is set to launch the country’s new National Land Policy 1995 (2023 Edition) in Dodoma today, stakeholders have commended the move, expressing optimism that the revised dossier will address various contentious land issues, including management and development of the resources.

Speaking to the ‘Daily News’ yesterday, researcher and gender analyst Mr Deogratius Temba thanked the government for introducing the long-awaited revised policy, expressing confidence that it will address various challenges, especially in land ownership.

“We thank the government for reaching this milestone. We have waited a long time for this policy. We have good land-related laws that are well recognised by gender and women’s rights activists. So, we expect the new version to pave the way for improving certain sections of land-related laws, especially in the Village Land Act No 5 of 1999,” Mr Temba said.

He also expressed optimism that the revised policy, which is set to be launched at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre in the capital city, will reinforce Section 3(2) of the Village Land Act No 5 of 1999, which focuses on the management of village land to address gender-related challenges.

Quoting Section 3(2)(b) of the Act, Mr Temba stated, “Women are entitled to acquire, own, use and inherit land just like their male counterparts. This section protects women’s rights, especially those of widows.”

He further emphasised that the policy will empower village land decision-making bodies, as stipulated in Section 8(1)(c).

“In this regard, we want to see that men and women are equally represented in land decision-making bodies. For instance, the Village Land Committee and the Ward Land Council, which handles land resolutions, must include women. It is our desire to see land resources well protected and fair decisions made for the benefit of all,” he added.

On her part, Ms Annastazia Rugaba, Director for Advocacy and Engagement at Twaweza East Africa, said that the revised version of the land policy is crucial at a time when many tribal traditions marginalise youth and women in owning and utilising land for the country’s development.

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She added, in most societies, women are actively engaged in agriculture, which is the backbone of the country’s economy, yet they are often marginalised when it comes to land ownership.

She emphasised that the country needs a policy that will restore confidence in women, whom she described as excellent land conservators.

Ms Ana Mgunda, a resident of Nzuguni on the outskirts of Dodoma City, noted that the region is experiencing numerous land conflicts due to rapid population growth.

However, she expressed confidence that the revised policy will help resolve these issues.

“We have seen cases where people invade others’ plots, leading to prolonged disputes. Women are losing their right to inherit land from their spouses. We really need this initiative to address land challenges in our area,” said the mother of three.

Speaking over the weekend, the Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlement Development, Mr Deogratius Ndejembi, described the launch of the National Land Policy as a historic milestone for the nation.

“The launch of the National Land Policy is a historic milestone for our nation… It reflects our commitment to ensuring that land resources are managed effectively and equitably,” Mr Ndejembi stated.

He added that preparations for the event expected to be broadcast live by local and international media were complete.

The National Land Policy 1995 (2023 Edition) is anticipated to enhance land tenure security, attract investment opportunities and promote sustainable development across the country.

As Tanzania continues to grow and urbanise, effective land management will be crucial in achieving national development goals.