An Examination on Effectiveness of the National Land Policy in Improving Livelihoods: A Case Study of Chinsali District

Topic: This study examines the effectiveness of the national land policy in improving livelihoods, with a focus on access to land and its impact on economic and social empowerment. Using Chinsali District as a case study, the research explores how policy measures are influencing livelihoods in land ownership.

Objectives: The primary objectives of this study are to (1) to evaluate the effectiveness of land allocation mechanisms in improving tenure among people of Chinsali, (2) to determine the socio-economic implications of the land policy on poverty reduction in Chinsali District, and (3) to assess how policy facilitates ownership of land by Zambian citizens in order to enhance decent livelihoods.

Design: A descriptive research design was used to provide an in-depth understanding of the policy's effectiveness. The study combines both quantitative and qualitative methods to gather comprehensive insights into the topic.

Sampling Procedures: Purposive sampling was employed to select key stakeholders, including resident landowners, and local government officials. A sample size of 100 participants was chosen, including 70 land owners from different socio-economic backgrounds in Chinsali District and 30 policymakers and community leaders. Data Collection Procedures: Data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The questionnaires focused on participants’ experiences with land access, while interviews with policymakers provided insights into the implementation challenges and intentions behind the policy. Focus groups allowed women to share their experiences and challenges openly.

Results: The findings indicate that while the National Land Policy has raised awareness about women’s rights to land, significant barriers remain. These include socio-cultural norms, lack of financial resources, and limited legal support. The policy's implementation has been inconsistent, with gaps in enforcement that prevent women from fully benefiting. However, women who have successfully accessed land report increased financial independence and social standing.

Recommendations: To improve the effectiveness of the National Land Policy, it is recommended that (1) community-based education initiatives be strengthened to challenge cultural barriers, (2) financial support programs be introduced to aid residents in acquiring land, and (3) policy enforcement mechanisms be improved to ensure uniform implementation across districts.