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President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding the principles governing the land sector to ensure that Tanzanians benefit from this vital resource.
She emphasized that all land in Tanzania belongs to the people and must be managed for their collective good.
Dr. Samia made these remarks during the launch ceremony of the revised National Land Policy of 1995, 2023 edition, held at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre.
"The government will continue to protect the fundamental principles guiding the land sector to ensure that Tanzanians fully benefit from this crucial resource," she stated.
She highlighted that the improvements in the policy will enhance efficiency in the land sector through the adoption of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems and improved dispute resolution mechanisms.
One of the key measures includes reviewing the structure of land tribunals and strengthening the frameworks that regulate sources of land-related conflicts.
"By embracing technology and enhancing our dispute resolution systems, we will create a more efficient and transparent land sector," Dr. Samia noted.
The President urged employees in the land sector to embrace professionalism and fairness in their work. "I call upon all land sector officials to work with integrity and commitment.
Any misconduct or inefficiency will not be tolerated," she warned. She also directed the Minister for Lands, Housing, and Human Settlements Development, Deogratius Ndejembi, to take appropriate measures against officials whose actions hinder efficiency and progress in the sector.
Dr. Samia pointed out that the revised policy incorporates crucial aspects that were missing in the 1995 edition.
These include strengthening international boundaries, conducting surveys on water-based land to boost the blue economy, and improving the management of real estate transactions.
"For the first time, this policy acknowledges the importance of our water-based land resources in growing our blue economy," she explained.
Furthermore, the policy revisions align with the government’s broader goal of economic growth through effective land use planning.
Dr. Samia noted that land remains a fundamental asset for national development, influencing key sectors such as agriculture, urban planning, and investment.
"Without proper land administration, we cannot achieve sustainable development. This policy is a step toward ensuring that land is effectively utilized for the benefit of all," she asserted.
One of the major challenges in the land sector has been land disputes, which often result in lengthy court cases and delayed development projects.
To address this, the government is introducing reforms that will streamline land dispute resolution processes, making them more transparent and efficient.
The introduction of digital land records and the automation of land services will minimize cases of fraudulent transactions and enhance accessibility for citizens.
"We are leveraging technology to eliminate corruption and inefficiencies in land management," Dr. Samia emphasized.
The President also underscored the role of land in supporting the blue economy, an emerging sector that focuses on utilizing marine and freshwater resources for economic development.
By including water-based land surveys in the revised policy, the government aims to optimize the use of Tanzania’s vast water resources for industries such as fisheries, tourism, and maritime transport.
"This will create new economic opportunities and ensure sustainable management of our aquatic resources," she noted.
Additionally, Dr. Samia stressed the need for proper land-use planning to accommodate the country’s growing urban population.
Rapid urbanization has led to increased demand for housing and infrastructure, making it necessary to have clear guidelines on land allocation and development.
"Unplanned urban expansion is a challenge. Through this policy, we aim to bring order and fairness in land allocation," she remarked.
Another significant aspect of the policy revision is the regulation of real estate transactions. The growing real estate sector has witnessed an influx of investors, both local and foreign, requiring a more structured approach to ensure transparency and accountability.
The government is strengthening legal frameworks to monitor and regulate property transactions, thus protecting both buyers and sellers.
"We must ensure that land transactions are conducted fairly and transparently to prevent fraud and exploitation," she stated.
The President’s address also highlighted the importance of land tenure security, especially for rural communities.
She noted that land ownership should be clearly defined to empower individuals, particularly women and smallholder farmers, who rely on land for their livelihoods.
"This policy is a tool for empowering Tanzanians, especially those in rural areas, by securing their land rights," Dr. Samia explained.
Dr. Samia also encouraged public awareness and participation in land-related matters. She emphasized that citizens must be well-informed about their land rights and the available procedures for acquiring land legally.
"Public awareness is key in preventing land conflicts. Every Tanzanian should understand their land rights and obligations," she urged.
The government has also pledged to enhance land administration by training land officers and equipping them with the necessary tools to serve the public effectively.
Capacity building in the sector will ensure that land services are delivered professionally and in a timely manner.
"We will invest in training our land officers to ensure they deliver services efficiently and fairly," she promised.
The launch of the revised National Land Policy marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to improve land governance and ensure that all Tanzanians benefit from this valuable resource.
With enhanced technological integration, better dispute resolution mechanisms, and strengthened legal frameworks, the policy aims to create a more transparent, efficient, and inclusive land management system in Tanzania.
"This policy is not just a document; it is a roadmap to sustainable land management and national development," Dr. Samia concluded.