Mzimba Officials Launch Push for Formal Land Rights, Reform
The reforms aim to streamline the registration process while maintaining protections for customary land use.
MZIMBA, Malawi — M'mbelwa District Council officials are spearheading an initiative to help residents formalize land ownership under new laws aimed at reducing community conflicts and promoting equitable development, writes Victoria Yande.
The effort addresses a system where traditional chiefs typically hold sole land rights, leaving community members with limited legal protection.
"Many communities lack awareness about land ownership," said Allan Chitete, Director of Lands and Public Works, during a Thursday meeting organized by the Mzimba Youth Organisation.
"We need to provide communities with land documents or certificates to formalize their land ownership."
The 2022 laws prohibit customary estate sales and waive registration fees for individual landowners, marking a significant shift in local land management practices.
Wyted Nyirenda, Secretary General for Mzimba Urban Chiefs, emphasized the need for change.
"This has led to a system where community members are merely subjects, causing conflicts among communities," he said.
"Women and youths need land rights to improve food security and drive district development."
The initiative, funded by the Legal Empowerment Fund and International Land Coalition, focuses on educating communities about ownership benefits while promoting gender equality in land rights.
"The project aligns with recognizing and protecting diverse tenure and production systems," said Moses Nkhani, Executive Director of Mzimba Youth Organisation.
He emphasized the program's commitment to transparency and accountability.
Local authorities are working with traditional leaders, district commissioners, and councillors to build awareness of the new regulations.
The reforms aim to streamline the registration process while maintaining protections for customary land use.