Land tenure project curbs disputes, improves settlements in Chalinze

By Devotha John

The Land Tenure Improvement Project (LTIP) has significantly reduced land disputes and improved settlements in Chalinze District, according to District Executive Director Ramadhani Possi.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Possi attributed the success to the $351 billion provided by the World Bank for the project, which began in September 2022 and covered two wards in Chalinze Municipality: Pera and Bwillingili.

"The project has greatly reduced land disputes and improved settlements. The awareness campaign conducted before the project's implementation has significantly reduced the backlog of land cases," said Mr. Possi.

 He added that the initial target of completing 10,000 blocks in the two wards was surpassed, with 11,000 blocks completed in the 750 mapped plots.

The Pingu, Magome, and Pera hamlets in the two wards, along with the Chaua, Msilwa, Mdaula, and Majengo hamlets, have all benefited from the project. Land use planning experts have now prepared 50 land use plans, paving the way for title deeds to be issued to most of the beneficiaries.

"We express our sincere gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for approving this project. Chalinze District Council stands as a model for successfully implementing LTIP," said Mr. Possi.

He added that the second phase, which is set to cover 100,000 blocks, will soon commence, focusing on the remaining 13 wards. These include Lugoba, Vigwaza, Ubena, Miono, and Kiwangwa.

Chalinze District Land Officer Rogati Kaale emphasised that educating residents about land disputes has been criticial to the project's success.

 He noted that some warring parties have willingly relinquished their plots to allow land officers to demarcate pathways, reducing conflict.

Mr. Kaale further highlighted that residents living in water catchment areas have voluntarily vacated the premises, recognizing the importance of leaving a 60-meter buffer zone around each house, further contributing to dispute reduction.

"We still have a vast area to cover," said Mr. Kaale. "Residents are desperate to have their land mapped. Thanks to the steady progress of LTIP, the second phase is set to cover over 50 blocks."

He explained that plans are underway to reach all areas targeted for the project. Mr. Kaale noted the previous lack of pathways in some settlements, which led to conflict when residents were asked to give up land for their construction. However, increased awareness has resulted in residents readily relinquishing land for this purpose.

However, concerns remain regarding the project's limited reach in farmlands. Resident Mr. Rugate, who requested anonymity, urged authorities to consider expanding the project's scope before the scheduled completion date.

"This project plays a vital role," said Mr. Rugate. "We urge the Head of State, in collaboration with stakeholders from the Chalinze District Council, to explore ways to expand the project to benefit more areas. Currently, only a small portion seems to be covered."

The Land Tenure Improvement Project (LTIP) commenced in 2022 under the Ministry of Land, Housing, and Human Settlements Development and is scheduled for completion in 2026. The project aims to increase the number of Tanzanians with valid title deeds and ensure equal land ownership rights for men and women.