Owners of land have been urged to properly safeguard their properties in order to prevent disputes and strengthen security of ownership across communities.
The call was made in Njombe Municipality on April 27 at Mjimwema grounds during a public awareness session led by the Assistant Land Commissioner for Njombe Region, Fulgence Kanuti, who emphasized that every citizen has a responsibility to protect land as a key national asset.
He said land remains one of the most valuable resources for individuals and the country at large, stressing that proper protection, documentation, and lawful use are essential in avoiding unnecessary conflicts that continue to affect many areas.
Kanuti also linked land protection with ongoing government reforms aimed at improving land administration, including systematic surveying and formal registration of land parcels.
He said the government is continuing to survey land to ensure all owners are captured in the official system for land rent payment.
He reminded citizens that under the Land Act of 1999, every person who owns surveyed land is required to pay land rent.
He said this legal requirement supports orderly land management and helps strengthen recognition of ownership rights.
He further explained that legal land ownership comes with several benefits, including easier access to loans from financial institutions, improved protection of property rights, and reduced chances of disputes between individuals and communities.
According to him, properly surveyed and registered land allows owners to plan better investments, use their property productively, and avoid delays caused by legal conflicts.
He encouraged citizens to take land registration seriously and cooperate with relevant authorities to ensure their properties are properly documented, noting that this is key to protecting family assets and improving long-term economic stability.
On his part, the Acting Land Development Officer for Njombe Town Council, Emanuel Amos, said there is still a strong need to increase public awareness on land matters, particularly on planning, surveying, and ownership procedures.
He noted that limited knowledge among some residents has contributed to misunderstandings and avoidable disputes in various communities, making continuous education necessary.
Amos said the Ministry responsible for lands, working together with local government authorities, continues to conduct land clinics aimed at bringing services closer to citizens.
Through these clinics, residents receive guidance on land allocation, surveying, registration processes, and legal requirements.
He urged residents of Njombe to attend the sessions at Mjimwema grounds so they can obtain accurate information on how to acquire, register, and manage land properly.
He said the outreach programs are designed to ensure citizens understand land procedures clearly, protect their properties effectively, and contribute to peaceful coexistence within their communities.
Authorities in Njombe continue to encourage collaboration between citizens and land institutions, saying improved awareness and compliance will help reduce land conflicts and support sustainable development at both household and national levels.
