Land authorities in Chiradzulu District have expressed concern over the illegal sale of customary land, warning that the trend is undermining proper physical planning in the area.
The Land Registrar at Chiradzulu District Council, Kondwani Kainga, noted that many buyers from outside the district are constructing buildings without following regulations, often near protected areas such as roads, mountains, and rivers.
“This goes against the Physical Planning Act, which requires that a distance of 15 metres must be observed on either side of protected structures before any construction takes place,” Kainga explained.
He appealed to the residents of Chiradzulu to refrain from selling their land before it is registered with the council, stressing that registration would enable authorities to guide developers on proper and lawful land use.
“If people continue to build structures illegally, they risk having them demolished,” Kainga warned.
Senior Chief Nchema echoed the concern, disclosing that his office is increasingly handling land disputes, particularly those rooted in cultural and clan-related issues. He urged people to value land as a key asset and safeguard it for future generations.
Meanwhile, the Lands Office has announced plans to roll out community awareness campaigns this month to sensitise residents on the provisions of the amended Land Act.
Chiradzulu District covers approximately 77,000 hectares of land.
By Chrissie Mainjeni, Chiradzulu
