Unpacking the challenges of land restitution in South Africa H. M. Tshivhase, E. Mahole & S. T. Matloga

The purpose of this research is to examine the ongoing challenges in implementing land restitution in South Africa, particularly within a rural district context, to inform policy reform and suggest a model for enhancing the effectiveness of restitution efforts. Employing a qualitative research approach that relies on secondary data, the study utilises peer-reviewed literature, policy documents, and legislative frameworks, while being informed by Land Restitution Theory to explore institutional and governance dynamics. The results indicate that despite South Africa's robust constitutional and legislative framework for land restitution, the implementation is hindered by inadequate institutional capacity, poor coordination among state agencies, ineffective Communal Property Associations (CPAs), market-oriented acquisition methods, and insufficient community involvement. These obstacles have considerably impeded the progress of land reform and weakened its intended socio-economic benefits. Additionally, the study highlights that insufficient post-settlement support and limited empowerment of beneficiaries continue to threaten the sustainability of restituted land. This research contributes to the field of land reform by providing policy-focused recommendations that aim to strengthen institutions, enhance CPA capabilities, foster participatory governance, and explore alternative acquisition methods. Furthermore, it proposes a people-centered model for implementing land restitution that aims to enhance governance, accountability, and livelihood outcomes.