Adherence to Land use Zones in Implementation of Participatory Village Land use Planning Policy in Ulanga District in Tanzania

Abstract

Proper implementation of land use planning may contribute to solving land use problems, including land use conflicts. Adherence to land plans depends on many factors which vary according to circumstances of a study area. The present study aims to contribute to knowledge needed to enhance adherence to zones in land use planning. Specifically, the study had two objectives, namely: (1) to examine extent of adherence to village land use plans and, (2) to assess factors that influence adherence to the village land use plans. Data were collected through household survey of 120 respondents from two villages, key informants, focus group discussions, field observation, review of guidelines for land use planning, village land use plans (VLUPs), district land use framework, books and journal articles. GPS points to examine adherence to VLUPs were analyzed using Kappa statistic. Factors influencing adherence to VLUPs were analysed using binary logistical regression and pair-wise ranking. There was moderate adherence with kappa coefficient of 0.47 and 0.49 for Iragua and Kichangani villages. Larger families with higher incomes were more likely not to adhere to land use plans. Immigrants were also more likely not to adhere to plans than residents. Corruption of village leaders, lack of follow up by village leaders on implementation, lack of awareness on land use plans and underestimated population growth were the key prioritised factors that resulted in non-adherence of land use plans. The study recommends a review of the zoning standards to enhance sufficiency of allocated zones; privatization of grazing land; establishment of communal grazing management plans; and involvement of communities in developing complete plans. The study also recommends close monitoring; reviewing of VLUPs; enforcement of good governance; establishing incentive schemes; offering continuous education and developing participatory implementation framework.