Implementation of National Land Policy and Industrial Development in Tanzania: Highlights from Mbeya Region

Abstract

Industrial development is crucial for the progress and economic strength of any nation, as it can absorb a large workforce and bolster the economy. Efficient land use planning is essential for industrial development. This study assessed the implementation of Tanzania's national land policy in terms of land allocation for industrial purposes, access to land for industrial investment, and the procedures for registering land for industrial use. Guided by Von Thunen's land use model, the study involved 120 randomly selected small industry owners from six districts in the Mbeya region. Using a quantitative approach and descriptive statistical analysis, the findings revealed that the current land management policy fails to meet investors' needs for easy land access for industrial development. The study highlighted the challenges faced in developing local by-laws for land management, with no effective land planning at the local government level. Additionally, the registration process for industrial land was found to be problematic. The study recommends reforms to the land policy to facilitate easier access and ownership of land by investors and streamline the land registration process.