Examination of the Laws and Practices on Village Land Use Planning in Tanzania

Village land use planning in Tanzania is a critical instrument for sustainable rural development, environmental management, and equitable access to land. Despite the enactment of the Village Land Act R.E 2023, the Land Act R.E 2023, and the Land Use Planning Act R.E 2023, the implementation of statutory land use planning faces numerous legal challenges. This study identifies and analyses seven major challenges, including the conflict between customary land tenure and statutory frameworks, weak enforcement of planning provisions, overlapping authority between central and local government, marginalisation of vulnerable groups, corruption, limited institutional capacity, and inadequate dispute resolution mechanisms. The research employs a doctrinal legal methodology, relying on statutory interpretation, judicial decisions, and scholarly works, including books and journal articles, to critically examine the laws governing village land use in Tanzania. The study reveals significant gaps between statutory provisions and practical implementation, showing that cultural practices, institutional weaknesses, and legal ambiguities undermine the effectiveness of land use planning. Recommendations are provided to harmonise customary and statutory systems, strengthen enforcement, protect vulnerable groups, enhance institutional capacity, and improve dispute resolution processes. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of legal reforms needed to ensure equitable, transparent, and sustainable village land use planning in Tanzania.