The Zambia Land Alliance (ZLA) has raised alarms over the conversion of customary land to state land for large-scale investments, highlighting concerns of displacement without adherence to the National Resettlement Policy. Recent remarks from President Hakainde Hichilema regarding the alienation of 55,000 hectares of land in Mufumbwe, without proper consultation with Chiefs, have drawn further attention to the issue.
ZLA Executive Director Patrick Musole has commended the President for addressing the matter and stressed the need for accountability for those involved in the illegal land alienation process. Mr. Musole has stressed that blame should not solely fall on Chiefs, as their authority is limited under Land Administrative guidelines.
According to the guidelines, Chiefs can consent to land conversion up to 250 hectares, while larger areas require approval from the Minister of Land, Commissioner of Land, or the President. Mr. Musole asserts that attributing blame solely to Chiefs for the 55,000-hectare alienation exceeds their legal jurisdiction.
The Zambia Land Alliance has urged transparency in disclosing all parties involved in the land conversion process and emphasised the necessity for accountability to extend to all responsible entities.
