Land my Dreams: Networking, Opportunities, and Presenting at the Conference on Land Policy in Africa.
Introduction
It has long been my dream to contribute to robust land governance systems in Africa, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, who in many societies have been discriminated against in terms of land ownership, inheritance and decision-making processes. I envision a future where women's land rights are not limited by circumstance, where their value is recognised, and where hope thrives for them in land-related matters. The Conference on Land Policy in Africa (CLPA) provided a unique opportunity to share this dream, expand my network, learn from others, and present my research.
Understanding the importance of such gatherings, I am thrilled to share that I was selected for a full sponsorship from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the African Union Commission to attend and present my research at the fifth edition of CLPA held in Ethiopia (November 21-24, 2023). This biennial event brings together stakeholders across the continent to discuss crucial land governance and policy issues. The theme, "Promoting Sustainable Land Governance in Africa for Accelerating Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement (AfCFTA)," resonated deeply with my aspirations. The conference explored how improved land governance can contribute to the success of the AfCFTA, ultimately leading to a more equitable future for all Africans. Being a part of this event was not just about achieving my personal dream; it was a chance to contribute to a larger vision of empowering women through land rights and shaping a more sustainable, prosperous Africa.
Exploring the Power Dynamics of Large-Scale Land Deals in Sierra Leone: A Young Researcher's Perspective
The recent boom of large-scale land deals (LSLDs) in North-West Sierra Leone has sparked concerns about land grabbing, particularly amidst the involvement of local political actors. As a young researcher, I was fortunate to present my work on this issue at the prestigious Conference on Land Policy in Africa (CLPA). My research, titled "Dynamics of Large-Scale Land Deals and Local Political Influence in North-West Sierra Leone," delves into the complex interplay between LSLDs, local communities, and powerful individuals. While these deals offer economic opportunities, they also raise critical questions about transparency, accountability, and the true beneficiaries. My findings highlight the significant influence of local political actors, including traditional and elected officials, on shaping LSLDs. These actors often hold close ties to investors and government officials, potentially benefiting from the deals while simultaneously wielding significant control over land allocation and decision-making processes. This, however, can lead to corruption and marginalization of local communities.
The research demonstrates how the involvement of local political actors has contributed to land grabbing practices, resulting in displacement from ancestral lands without adequate compensation or resettlement plans. This displacement disrupts livelihoods, erodes cultural heritage, and fuels social unrest.
To address these challenges and promote equitable and sustainable land management, I propose a multifaceted approach. First, empowering communities through secure land tenure gives them with a stronger voice and protects their rights. Increased transparency in decision-making and accountability of all stakeholders are also crucial for fair and responsible land deals. Moreover, meaningful participation of local communities in negotiations and decision-making processes ensures that their concerns are heard and addressed. Furthermore, strengthening legal frameworks and ensuring their effective implementation are essential to combat land grabbing and protect community rights. However, providing alternative income opportunities to communities affected by LSLDs can reduce their dependence on land and mitigate the negative impacts of displacement.
My participation in the CLPA provided a valuable platform to share these findings and engage with diverse stakeholders. By working together, researchers, policy makers, communities and civil society can ensure that LSLDs contribute to positive development, empower local communities and promote sustainable land management practices in North West Sierra Leone and beyond.
Fruitful Engagements at CLPA: Fostering Equitable Land Governance in Sierra Leone
My participation in the conference opened doors to valuable discussions with key stakeholders from Sierra Leone's land administration sector. Among them were staff of the Land Administration Project, the Commissioner General of the Land Commission, and senior management of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning. These meetings proved highly productive. I was able to share insights and best practices on land reform across Africa, particularly in relation to women's land rights and the protection of vulnerable groups.
We discussed several strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of large-scale land deals (LSLDs) and promote more equitable and transparent land governance reforms: Formalising and safeguarding land rights can empower communities to resist land grabs and negotiate more favourable terms with investors. This critical step can be achieved through initiatives such as community titling and legal education programmes. Tackling corruption requires increased transparency in land deals and improved accountability of local officials. Streamlining decision-making processes, promoting public access to information, and establishing robust grievance mechanisms are essential measures. Ensuring that local voices are heard is key to equitable land reform. By actively involving communities throughout the reform process, they can articulate their concerns and ensure that their rights are protected. Curbing land grabbing and protecting community rights requires the effective enforcement of existing laws and regulations governing land acquisition and utilization. Investing in capacity building and strengthening monitoring mechanisms can significantly improve enforcement standards.
By actively pursuing these strategies, stakeholders can collaborate to create a fairer land governance system in Sierra Leone. My engagement at the CLPA has reinforced my belief in the power of open dialogue and collective action to drive positive change for local communities and ensure sustainable land management practices.
Expanding My Network: Building Bridges at CLPA
Beyond its academic value, the Conference on Land Policy in Africa (CLPA) proved invaluable for building professional connections. As a Network on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA) alumnus, I actively participated in their alumni session, tapping into the network's vast experience and expertise. This session kept me abreast of the latest research, ongoing developments, and allowed me to engage with researchers of all career stages, from inspiring mentors and professors to fellow early-career scholars.
The networking trail continued with a thought-provoking meeting with my former Provost and NELGA West Africa Node Coordinator. And the connections did not stop there! Exhilarating conversations with PhD colleagues from Kwame Nrumah University of Science and Technology (Kumasi, Ghana), Arhdi University (Tanzania), Bahir Dar University (Ethiopia), University of Yaounde (Cameroon), University of Western Cape, Institute for Poverty, Land and Agrarian Studies (South Africa) and the civil society such as Landesa, TETRA TECH, Land for Life, NAMATI, International Growth Centre and Greenfarms provided a constant flow of ideas as we navigated the complexities of our research, shared challenges, and learned from each other's best practices. Through these interactions, I forged valuable connections with diverse experts, professors, and practitioners in the field of land governance in Africa. These connections will undoubtedly propel my research forward and contribute to broader advancements in land governance across the continent.
CLPA: Transforming Dreams into Action
CLPA was a powerful testament to the transformative power of ambition, connection, and collective action. Engaging with diverse stakeholders across the continent revealed the complex tapestry of land policy challenges and illuminated the crucial role individual passion plays in shaping solutions. Connecting with inspiring individuals dedicated to land reform was more than just networking; it fueled my motivation and forged a vital support network. New collaborations and opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects blossomed, demonstrating the immense value of shared passion and purpose. Through the lens of CLPA, my long-held dream – advocating for equitable land rights and community prosperity – gained renewed vibrancy. Witnessing passion translated into action and strategic networking served as a potent reminder that aspirations can indeed become reality. Fueled by the invaluable lessons and connections forged at the conference, my journey continues. Inspired, I step forward, ready to engage, collaborate, and contribute to shaping a future where land rights are upheld and communities across Africa thrive.
