In a world where land ownership equals power, one district in Tanzania is rewriting the rules for women and youth. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite women making up nearly 90% of Tanzania’s agricultural workforce and producing 70% of the country’s food, only one in four holds secure land rights. This staggering disparity isn’t just a statistic—it’s a barrier to progress, resilience, and equality.
Meet Grace, a farmer from Kalambo district, Tanzania. With a radiant smile, she clutches a blue paper file—her newly earned land deed. Around her, 19 other women share the same triumphant moment, each holding their own deed. This isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a symbol of empowerment, a key to unlocking a future they once thought was out of reach.
Kalambo district has long been shackled by social norms that marginalize women and young people, denying them land ownership and leadership roles. For generations, their voices were silenced in decisions about land management, leaving them without the security needed to plan for the future. This exclusion didn’t just affect individuals—it weakened entire communities, stifling innovation and long-term sustainability.
But change is taking root. In 2024, the IUCN’s SUSTAIN initiative partnered with local land officers to challenge these norms. Through community dialogues, they educated villagers about land tenure systems and their importance for building resilience. The goal? To secure Certificates of Customary Rights of Occupancy (CCROs) for eligible community members, particularly women and youth.
These dialogues weren’t just meetings—they were platforms for consent, concern, and collaboration. Women like Grace finally had a seat at the table, their voices amplified as they engaged with local government authorities. Emanuel Joseph Lyimo, a land officer, explains, “We educate citizens about equality in law, emphasizing that our laws recognize equal ownership for men and women. We also encourage them to challenge practices that deny these rights.”
And this is the part most people miss: securing land rights isn’t just about ownership—it’s about agency. With CCROs, women and youth gain the power to shape their livelihoods. They can use land as collateral for businesses, advocate for sustainable practices, and contribute to better natural resource management. It’s a ripple effect, transforming not just individuals but entire communities.
Yet, changing attitudes takes time. New ideas must take root, and marginalized groups must be prioritized. SUSTAIN’s on-the-ground work focuses on those most excluded, ensuring they benefit the most. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can land ownership alone bridge the gap between tradition and progress? Or are deeper systemic changes needed to ensure true equality?
Grace’s story is just one of many, but it’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when communities are empowered. Read the full story here and join the conversation. Do you think land ownership is the key to equality, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a dialogue that drives change.