The Tanzanian government has set aside more than TZS 3 billion to formalize unplanned residential settlements in Dar es Salaam, aiming to address long-standing challenges related to unregulated land use and enhance land value for residents.
Launching the second phase of the formalization project on December 13, 2024, Minister of Lands, Housing, and Human Settlements Development, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, directed the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary to ensure the installation of 40,000 land survey beacons by January 2025.
These beacons will demarcate land plots to facilitate the formalization process across the region.
“This exercise reflects President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to addressing the issue of unplanned settlements. To that end, over TZS 3 billion has been allocated to ensure this project’s success, increasing the value of your land and improving urban planning,” stated Hon. Ndejembi.
During the launch event, 200 land title deeds were distributed to residents of Ukonga and Segerea constituencies. The Minister emphasized that the formalization process must strictly adhere to the country’s laws, regulations, and established procedures.
Dar es Salaam is one of the regions grappling with unplanned settlements, which pose significant urban planning and infrastructure challenges. By November 2024, a total of 270 streets across the region's five councils had been included in settlement formalization projects.
Highlighting the project’s timeline, Hon. Ndejembi instructed that all residents in the designated areas should have their plots formalized by June 2025.
He added, “By then, every resident should have a formally demarcated area with beacons installed to ensure proper land ownership.”
Hon. Ndejembi warned implementing officials to execute their responsibilities with integrity, professionalism, and adherence to the law.
“I do not expect complaints from residents about misconduct or disregard for procedures by officials. Any staff member who violates the guidelines or fails to uphold justice will face strict disciplinary action,” he asserted.
The Minister’s directive reinforces the government’s resolve to transform Dar es Salaam’s urban landscape, ensuring that residents benefit from secure and organized settlements while improving the region’s overall urban planning framework.