Ministry of Lands has described the Land Use Plans for the Villages Initiative currently in its preparatory phase as a significant step towards fostering proper utilisation of customary land.
The ministry’s commissioner for physical planning Robins Lukasi said this on Tuesday during a preparatory meeting on land use plans with section heads at Mangochi District Council.
the meeting. | Ayamba Kandodo
He said the initiative will help communities to understand the importance of registering customary land and obtaining title deeds, which will contribute to more structured and secure land ownership.
“We have informed communities about the ongoing village land use plans. They are aware, but we are also engaging stakeholders to share information about their development plans in the villages,” said Lukasi.
He expressed concern over growing cases of encroachment, particularly on land designated for public services such as schools, hospitals and road reserves.
“This is unacceptable, especially the encroachment on road reserves,” said Lukasi.
He emphasised the importance of raising awareness during implementation of land-related interventions.
Mangochi District Council acting environmental officer Annette Mlenga highlighted the need to integrate environmental protection into development plans.
“While we push for development, we must also ensure the environment is protected,” she said.
The council’s director of human resource and administration Thomas Mwafongo acknowledged that land encroachment remains a major concern in the district
