CDEDI calls for immediate land audit, to ascertain ownership and usage!

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has called for an immediate and comprehensive national land audit to establish true ownership of land across Malawi, saying the move is essential to address escalating land disputes and alleged illegal acquisitions.

CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa reiterate
the call as residents of Nzeru village in the area of Traditional Authority Malengachanzi in Nkhotakota are crying foul over what they describe as the loss of their customary land.

The Villagers allege their land was sold to a Burundian national, who they claim is using police officers to intimidate and terrorise community members while blocking them from accessing fields and homes they have depended on for long.

According to Village Head Nzeru, at least 54 families have been affected by the dispute, with 11 households reportedly rendered destitute after their houses were demolished.

The affected families say they are now living in harsh conditions without adequate shelter, food or support.

Namiwa said the situation in Nzeru village illustrates the urgency of conducting a nationwide land audit, arguing that many conflicts stem from unclear ownership records, corruption and weak enforcement of land laws.

He expressed hope that a transparent audit would expose irregular transactions, protect customary land rights and restore confidence among citizens.

He further noted that a properly conducted audit would help government identify idle land, resolve overlapping claims and ensure fair distribution of resources.

According to Namiwa, this would not only prevent forced evictions but also promote social stability and economic productivity, particularly in rural communities that depend on land for survival.

Namiwa said CDEDI believes a land audit could serve as a long-term solution to the country’s recurring land wrangles if implemented honestly and with public participation.

He added that without such decisive action, disputes like the one in Nzeru village are likely to continue, leaving vulnerable families exposed to displacement and poverty.

CDEDI has vowed to investigate the Nzeru matter to ensure justice prevails, saying it will engage relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the rights of the affected villagers and prevent further abuses.