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VOL. 7, ISSUE 4 (2025)
Deficiency of Land banks to Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) and its effect on customary land tenure in Tanzania
Authors
Charles Majigwa
Abstract
The creation of the Tanzania Investment and
Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) and the adoption of land banks
reflect Tanzania’s strategic shift towards investment-driven land governance.
While the model aims to accelerate industrialisation, enhance foreign direct
investment, and strengthen economic growth, it has generated substantial
tensions with customary land tenure, which remains the most prevalent system of
landholding in Tanzania. This article examines the genesis of TISEZA, the
statutory and institutional framework governing land banks, and the
implications of these mechanisms for customary tenure. It argues that the
deficiencies in the legal and institutional design of TISEZA undermine the
security of tenure for millions of Tanzanians by facilitating the conversion of
village land to general land with minimal safeguards. Using Tanzanian statutes,
case law, and comparative experiences from Kenya, South Africa, Australia, and
Sweden, the article highlights the challenges of balancing investment
imperatives with indigenous land rights. It concludes by recommending reforms
to harmonise TISEZA’s investment mandate with constitutional and human rights
obligations towards the protection of customary tenure.
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Pages:17-20
How to cite this article:
Charles Majigwa "Deficiency of Land banks to Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) and its effect on customary land tenure in Tanzania". International Journal of Law, Policy and Social Review, Vol 7, Issue 4, 2025, Pages 17-20
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