Challenges of Land Dispute Settlement Mechanisms on Sustainable Land Management in Bagamoyo District

Abstract

his study examines the challenges faced by land dispute settlement mechanisms and their impact on sustainable land management in Bagamoyo District. With increasing land disputes influenced by complex socio-cultural, financial, and institutional factors, the study focuses on identifying specific barriers that hinder effective land dispute resolution, particularly in relation to agriculture, environmental conservation, and socio-economic development. The study was guided by three specific objectives: first, to identify socio-cultural factors that hinder land dispute settlement mechanisms towards agriculture production; second, to examine how financial accessibility affects land dispute settlement mechanisms in relation to environmental conservation; and third, to analyze the impact of institutional arrangements on land dispute settlement mechanisms for socio-economic development. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data collected through questionnaires from local residents with qualitative data from interviews with government officials, village executive officers, and land surveyors. The sample comprised 100 participants, representing diverse perspectives within the district’s population. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the barriers to effective land dispute resolution. Findings reveal that socio-cultural factors, including traditional land tenure systems and patriarchal social structures, contribute to ongoing conflicts, impacting agricultural productivity. Financial constraints, such as limited infrastructure investment and resource diversion, significantly hinder conservation efforts by preventing communities from adopting sustainable land practices. Furthermore, institutional limitations, such as political interference, lack of coordination, and weak regulatory frameworks, were found to obstruct efficient land dispute resolutions, undermining socio-economic development and community trust. The study concludes that addressing these challenges requires targeted reforms, including policy interventions to modernize land tenure systems, increased financial support for sustainable practices, and enhanced institutional capacity. Recommendations emphasize the need for community engagement, transparent governance, and cross-agency collaboration to foster equitable land dispute resolutions, contributing to sustainable development within Bagamoyo District.