Land is fundamental to Malawi’s growth and stability. It influences where we live, production, development and how we plan for the future.
As we aim for Malawi 2063, effective land management becomes crucial.
The Ministry of Lands handles land matters for national progress.
However, land affairs fall under the responsibilities of the Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Public Infrastructure.
The committee deals with a wide range of issues that it may not adequately focus on complex land issues that need detailed attention.
Malawi faces many land-related challenges. Our cities are growing fast, resources are limited and we see unplanned settlements, overburdened infrastructure and insufficient basic services.
Families end up in overcrowded, poorly managed areas, which affect their quality of life. Conflicts over land ownership and fragmented land titles add to the confusion.
The real estate landscape is changing rapidly and we need to proactively manage these shifts.
A specialised committee could tackle these issues more directly.
Some might worry that creating a new parliamentary committee could lead to overlap with existing structures. But a dedicated committee on land affairs could actually improve efficiency.
By focusing solely on land issues, this committee could reduce confusion and ensure policies are well-coordinated.
Rather than adding layers of complexity and bureaucracy, this would address land-related challenges more effectively.
Other countries have shown the benefits of a specialised land committee.
Kenya’s Parliamentary Committee on Land Affairs has improved land management and increased public involvement in land decisions, making the process more transparent and trustworthy.
The committee has also improved investor confidence by streamlining land registration and reducing corruption. Clearer land rights and stable land policies have attracted more investment, boosting economic growth.
Malawi could benefit from a similar approach. Parliament should represent all Malawians, as land is a key issue for many.
Effective land management is essential for our future. Land is not just an asset; it’s vital for livelihoods and stability.
When land is poorly managed, it affects everything from where people can build homes to where they can grow crops and provide for their families.
For instance, the Blantyre Urban Structure Plan of 2024-2039 reveals that only 45 percent of households in Blantyre can afford a registered plot without infrastructure.
The situation is likely even worse in other cities. This forces many into inadequate living conditions and disaster zones, undermining their hopes for a better future.
There are positive developments, such as the newly passed Sectional Title Act, which makes owning parts of buildings easier.
Government’s initiatives, including plans to build 250 000 houses nationwide, are promising, but require oversight to succeed.
A specialised committee could ensure these projects effectively address the needs of Malawians and bring about real change.
As our cities grow and real estate trends shift, we need a proactive approach to handle these changes. A dedicated committee could lead this effort, ensuring land management practices keep pace with new trends and national goals.
Land security is another urgent issue. Many people face unclear ownership and frequent disputes, which disrupt their lives and hinder development. A focused committee could help improve land laws, protect people’s rights and create stability, allowing families to build secure futures.
Malawi 2063 envisions a prosperous Malawi with smart growth and effective land management. A dedicated committee could ensure land policies support these goals for a better future for all.
Effective land management is essential for every Malawian to thrive.
