Rufiji DC allocates land to farmers, pastoralists

COAST REGION: CHRONIC land conflicts between farmers and pastoralists in Nyamwage Village, Rufiji District, Coast Region, are expected to come to an end following a government initiative to allocate designated plots for each group.

Under the new arrangement, the government has allocated farming plots on one side of the village and grazing land for pastoralists on the other.

A permanent boundary measuring eight kilometres in length and 30 metres in width, has been established to clearly separate the two areas.

Speaking recently, Rufiji District Commissioner Lt. Col. Frederick Komba said the move will make it easier for authorities to monitor and take legal action against any group that violates the boundary.

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“The government has decided to implement a lasting solution to these conflicts, which have had several negative impacts on the area. This step will save time and resources previously lost due to the disputes and, more importantly, it will help maintain peace,” he said.

The land allocation exercise is already underway and is expected to be completed by October 30 this year.

According to Coast Regional Veterinary Officer, Dr Ramadhani Mwaiganju, 668 farmers have already been allocated plots, with each receiving an average of three acres.

He also noted that 53 pastoralists have each been allocated approximately 100 acres of grazing land.

“These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to resolving long-standing land conflicts between farmers and pastoralists. By assigning specific areas to each group, we are not only preventing conflict but also promoting increased productivity on both sides,” Dr Mwaiganju said.