A total of 150 women from pastoralist communities in Simanjiro and Kiteto districts in Tanzania’s Manyara Region have been issued with customary land ownership certificates in an initiative aimed at strengthening women’s economic independence and addressing long-standing cultural barriers that have limited their access to land ownership.

The certificates were officially handed over in Arusha on May 23, 2026, as part of wider efforts involving the government and development partners to empower women in pastoralist areas.Many of these women have historically faced discrimination under traditional customs, even though national laws such as the Village Land Act No.5 guarantee equal rights to land ownership for all citizens.

Beneficiaries expressed their appreciation for the initiative, saying it will allow them to legally own land and engage in development activities without fear of losing property.

Helena Isaya from Naisinyai village in Simanjiro noted that many women had previously struggled despite purchasing land, as they lacked formal documentation.Another beneficiary, Suzan Lembris, said the certificates will help women secure their livelihoods and improve economic stability.

Kiteto District Council land officer Valence Huruma highlighted that collaboration between the government and non-governmental organisations has been key in empowering women through education, health services, and land rights awareness.He acknowledged that cultural practices have continued to limit women’s land ownership despite legal protections.

The Maasai Women Development Organisation (MWEDO), which marked its 25th anniversary during the event, played a major role in facilitating the issuance of the certificates.

The organisation also reported supporting education for over 2,000 girls and running health programmes benefiting more than 10,000 people annually, while also promoting climate change adaptation strategies such as drought-resistant crops and livestock breeds.Stakeholders emphasised that women’s land ownership is essential for sustainable community development and national progress.