The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development has intervened in a land-use dispute in Katoro Small Town Authority, Geita Region, involving the Geita District Council and a private investor.
In an official public notice released on Monday, the government said it is working in collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Office and the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) to address the matter and ensure compliance with national land-use laws.
A technical team comprising land experts and PO-RALG officials has already been deployed to the area to conduct an on-site assessment.
Authorities said a joint report outlining findings and recommendations will be issued after the investigation is completed.
Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, Dr Leonard D. Akwilapo, used the notice to remind landholders across the country to strictly adhere to the designated purposes stated in their Certificates of Occupancy, commonly known as title deeds.
He cautioned that using land for purposes outside its legally approved designation without authorization constitutes a breach of urban planning regulations and can lead to disputes, environmental degradation, and administrative penalties.
“Landowners who intend to change the use of their land must follow established legal procedures and obtain official change-of-use permits,” Dr Akwilapo said, stressing that proper authorization is essential to maintaining orderly development and protecting public interest.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing land governance frameworks aimed at promoting sustainable urban planning, environmental conservation, and transparent land administration.
The notice was issued by Eleuteri Mangi, Head of the Government Communications Unit, who said further updates will be provided once the technical review process is finalized.