Category: News
Deadline Extended -Call for Proposals for NELGA/DAAD Postdoc Fellowship -2024
Good news for emerging researchers interested in land policy in Africa! The deadline for submitting proposals for NELGA/DAAD Post-Doc Fellowships 2024 has been extended to March 25.
NELGA announces the release of Call for Proposals for NELGA Post-Doc Fellowships. We encourage emerging researchers, especially women, to seize this opportunity to enrich their academic careers and make substantive contributions to advancing land policy in Africa.
Successful applicants will benefit from:
* Financial support for their research endeavours.
* Further training on Science Communication and Advocacy for Research Output
* Financial support for scientific publications
* Networking opportunities fostering collaboration and exchange with peers For
In addition to that, DAAD plans to offer a VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION for interested applicants on 22nd February 2024, 11:00 CET (Central European Time).
The main language of the event will be English, but information materials will be translated into French. Questions & Answers will be in both English and French.
We look forward to the submission of your proposals and to welcoming you to our virtual info session!
comprehensive details and proposal submission guidelines, please refer to the attached Call for Proposals and visit the DAAD SLGA page.
Strengthening Land Governance: Highlights from Uganda’s Capacity Development Workshop
In a bid to fortify Uganda’s land administration system and enhance sustainable development, key stakeholders convened for a Capacity Development workshop happened 29th January 2024 leading to a training of Master trainers that was conducted from February 12th to 23rd, 2024. Supported by Strengthening Advisories Capacity for Land Governance in Africa (SLGA) in partnership with the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development (MLHUD) of Uganda, the workshop marked a significant step towards enhancing expertise and resources vital for effective land governance.
During the workshop, participants, including representatives from government bodies, academia, and development partners engaged in validating essential components such as capacity needs assessment, syllabi development, and criteria for selecting master trainers. Emphasising collaborative efforts, the initiative aimed to lay the foundation for a comprehensive strategy tailored to Uganda’s unique land sector needs.
A highlight of the capacity development strategy was the training of master trainers, tasked with cascading knowledge to district and sub-county levels. Focused on thematic areas such as land administration, physical planning, and conflict resolution, the training aimed to equip trainers with the necessary skills to drive transformative change in land governance across the country.
The SLGA program played a crucial role in supporting and facilitating the workshop and the training, further underscoring the commitment of local governance structures to effective land governance. This initiative underscores Uganda’s commitment to equitable resource allocation and sustainable development, positioning the land sector for enhanced effectiveness and resilience in the face of evolving challenges.
Bridging Gaps in Research Communication
NELGA concluded a Research Communication Workshop in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from March 5th to 7th, 2024. The workshop provided a valuable opportunity for participants, including academicians, researchers, policymakers, civil societies, and private sectors, to refine their skills in effectively communicating research findings.
The workshop aimed to enhance the visibility and accessibility of NELGA’s research endeavors. By employing the principles of Design Thinking (DT), the workshop facilitated collaborative engagements among researchers, the private sector, and the media. This approach addressed various challenges faced by stakeholders in accessing and comprehending research, ensuring that valuable insights could reach a wider audience.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in activities structured around the Empathize and Define Ideate Prototype, and Test and Reflect phases. These activities fostered collaborative idea generation, prototype development, and the presentation of communication materials and policy briefs. Participants demonstrated dedication in crafting tangible outputs, including engaging digital content and effective policy briefs.
Looking forward, NELGA anticipates the production of a series of policy briefs enriched by diverse perspectives. These briefs will be disseminated through NELGA channels and shared on different platforms. Additionally, participants will gain access to exclusive opportunities, including networking through the NELGA Alumni Network and potential funding opportunities like the NELGA Post Doc Fellowship.
The success of the Research Communication Workshop lays the groundwork for continued collaboration.
NELGA Central Africa: Methodological tools made available to young researchers working on land tenure issues
The 2024 edition of the Methodological Seminar for doctoral students working on land tenure issues was held at the University of Yaoundé 1 from 27 to 28 February 2024, at the initiative of the Central Africa node of the Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA).
The seminar aimed to train young researchers from Central African universities, particularly those enrolled in doctoral programmes, in the problematisation and construction of research subjects by introducing them to the understanding and handling of the most appropriate tools and techniques in their fields of specialisation, and to bring young researchers up to speed on the best practices and approaches for problematising research topics on the issue of the environment and sustainable development.
In addition to presenting NELGA Central Africa and its achievements, challenges and prospects, the two-day seminar focused on sharing knowledge and best practices on research methodology in social science (from a socio-anthropological and geographical perspective), in land law, the ethical implications of land law, the spatial dimension of land data with a focus on tools and methods, data processing and data collection tools, and localisation and exploitation of ressources .
The key suggestions emphasized the value of blending different types of information, like both qualitative and quantitative data, when conducting research. The significance of upholding ethical standards consistently throughout the research process has also been stressed. Additionally, students were urged to actively engage in or become part of established networks and communities of young researchers.
Unlocking Opportunities: NELGA’s Contributions at GIZ LandHub 2023
NELGA played a significant role at LandHub 2023 in Bonn, Germany. During the event, NELGA members actively participated in Technical Session 1, focusing on the connections between youth employment in the land sector, the Rio Conventions, and the SDGs.
This engaging session included discussions on “Unpacking linkages between youth employment in the land sector, the Rio Conventions, and the SDGs,” as well as a “Comprehensive analysis on the Rio Conventions and youth employment in the francophone and Anglophone areas.”
Speakers, such as Dr. Arno Sckeyde, Dr. Désiré Tchigankong, Dr. Madiodio Niasse, and others, explored how the Rio Conventions relate to youth employment in Africa. They presented comprehensive analyses based on case studies from Senegal, Cameroon, Tanzania, and Botswana, highlighting the significance of green jobs in addressing youth unemployment, particularly in agriculture, forestry, mining, and fisheries sectors.
Key takeaways stressed the need for collaboration between governments and training institutions to align education systems with land policy needs. Encouraging formalized economic activities for youth, promoting sustainable development, and supporting initiatives through capacity building were highlighted as crucial steps.
NELGA’s active engagement in this session underscores its commitment to shaping sustainable land governance in Africa.
Get full report – LandHub 2023 Report draft.docx (uneca.org)
Call for Applications NELGA Research Communication Workshop
We are excited to share with you the Call for Applications for an upcoming workshop on NELGA Research Communication. This workshop aims to improve the visibility and accessibility of NELGA’s research findings, ultimately promoting better cooperation between research and policy.
The workshop agenda includes engaging presentations, case studies, and interactive sessions that delve into the practical aspects of land governance in Africa. Expert speakers and facilitators will be on hand to share invaluable tools and strategies for effectively communicating research findings. Participants will also receive access to personalised coaching and mentorship sessions following the workshop.
- Application Process
To apply for the workshop, please submit a proposal and a short biography.
Please see more information attached and follow the Link for the Application Form here.
- The Deadline for applications is January 17th, 2024, 4 pm EAT.
- Location and Date: 3-day physical Workshop between February – March 2024 (TBC) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (TBC).
We believe that your participation in this workshop will not only broaden your horizons but also empower you to make a meaningful impact in the field of land governance. We look forward to receiving your applications. Please share widely within your respective networks.
The travel costs and accommodation will be covered by PROMAN, whom the GIZ-SLGA programme has contracted to implement Technical Support to NELGA on Research Communication.
Beginning an Impactful Adventure with NELGA
“In reflecting on my journey, I recognize that my internship was not just a learning experience, it was a steppingstone toward a successful career.”
– Gisberta Sheimi
In 2023, I will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business and information administration from Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). NUST is a prominent hub for the Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA), which is managed by the African Land Policy Centre (ALPC) with the support of the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ).
During this year, it was time to apply for a Work Integrated Learning (WIL). It seemed like everyone else had their futures all figured out, while I still felt incredibly lost. Nevertheless, I reminded myself that the final year of my studies was meant for gaining work experience and understanding what career path to choose afterward. So, I decided to apply for an internship, and fortunately, I was accepted as an administrative assistant at NELGA.
During my professional journey, I embarked on a transformative office administration internship that not only honed my skills but propelled me into a realm of success I hadn’t imagined.
From the beginning, I saw the potential for growth and learning and seized every opportunity to make a lasting impact. Under the amazing mentorship of Mr. Muduva, I performed various office tasks and learned a great deal from him. He was instrumental in my professional and personal growth.
I also participated in GIZ service day, including activities such as painting the Katutura state hospital, an incredible and enjoyable experience. One of the most exciting chapters involved a unique opportunity to travel abroad for a workshop on a Multistakeholder Dialogue on the Labour Market for Graduates in the field of Land Governance in Botswana, where I assisted in organizing the event. Although I was nervous about it being my first trip abroad for work, I was also excited for the opportunity.
This experience not only broadened my horizons but also allowed me to showcase my organizational skills on a global stage.
In reflecting on my journey, I recognize that my internship was not just a learning experience, it was a steppingstone toward a successful career. The combination of business administration expertise enhanced interpersonal skills, and international exposure opportunities has shaped me into a dynamic and effective office administrator.
Navigating the Mailo Impasse: An In-Depth Analysis of Uganda’s National Land Policy and its Four Options for Resolution
In 2013, Uganda embraced the National Land Policy (NLP), outlining a crucial mission in paragraph 44: to disentangle the complex web of interests and rights surrounding Mailo Land Tenure and Native Freehold Tenure. The roots of this initiative were deeply embedded in the persistent land question, a legacy of colonialism that led to overlapping and conflicting tenure rights.
The NLP’s commitment stemmed from various challenges:
a) Colonial Legacy: Uganda’s land question, a result of colonial influences, triggered conflicting tenure rights that demanded resolution.
b) Contestation of Rights: Ongoing disputes over the definition of rights granted to bonafide occupants in the Land Act (Cap 227) fueled the need for a comprehensive solution.
c) Statutory Protection: The Land Amendment Act (2010) attempted to protect bonafide occupants from arbitrary evictions, but the prescribed nominal ground rent was often overlooked by registered landowners.
d) Escalating Conflicts: Evictions, land disputes, and conflicts reached a deadlock as the prescribed tenant-landlord relationship failed to regulate the relationship between tenants and registered landowners effectively.
To address these issues, four options were proposed: Land sharing, buyout, leasehold, and certificate of occupancy. Despite having regulatory processes, a decade later, the implementation of these options remains a challenge.
This study delves into the status and issues surrounding the proposed options, examining the experiences of Ugandan citizens settled on Mailo land. As a result, evidence-based recommendations are put forth to enhance the policy’s proposed solutions, aiming to break the Mailo impasse and provide a clearer path for sustainable land use in Uganda.
For the full report, click here.
For the full Policy Brief, click here.
Advancing Land Governance Education: Insights from NELGA-SA Workshop
In a pivotal step toward transforming land governance education in Southern Africa, the recent workshop organized by NELGA set the stage for collaborative efforts among universities, institutions, and industry partners. Focused on aligning curricula with the African Land Policy Center (ALPC) Guideline, the workshop aimed to enhance education in the field.
The workshop, a cross-node learning opportunity, addressed four key objectives. Firstly, it assessed current curricula, identifying strengths and areas for improvement within NELGA Southern African universities. Secondly, it fostered stakeholder engagement, ensuring curricula responsiveness to diverse needs. Thirdly, by strengthening research components, the workshop aimed to equip students to contribute to evidence-based land governance solutions. Lastly, it sought to develop implementation strategies for mainstreamed curricula.
A notable highlight was the exchange of curricula development experiences among NELGA-SA universities. Presenters shared insights, fostering collaboration and mutual learning. The discussions extended to industry engagement, revealing challenges faced by graduates in land administration. Industry professionals emphasized the necessity for curricula to address social skills, crucial for effective community engagement.
The workshop concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration. It marked the initiation of the curricula development process, emphasizing collaboration, skill development, and overcoming academic-industry barriers. Moving forward, the integration of real-world experiences and regular curriculum updates are key to ensuring relevance in this rapidly evolving field. Bridging the pace gap between academia and industry is crucial for the advancement of sustainable land governance practices in Southern Africa. The workshop has laid the foundation for a transformative journey in land governance education, promising a brighter future for professionals in the region.
Bridging the Gap: Transforming the Landscape of Land Governance Graduates in Botswana
In a concerted effort to address the challenges faced by young graduates entering the workforce in the field of land governance in Botswana, the GIZ-African Union Programme and the NELGA Southern Africa network recently organized a “Multistakeholder Dialogue on the Labour Market for Graduates in the Field of Land Governance in Botswana.” The workshop, held on November 8-9, 2023, in Gaborone, brought together over 60 participants from various sectors, including government, private industry, civil society, and academia.
The workshop revealed a significant gap between academic training and industry needs, leading participants to emphasize the necessity of enhancing practical and soft skills through curriculum development. With an excess of graduates relative to job market capacity, a proposed solution involves integrating entrepreneurship skills to align graduates with market demands. Stakeholders stressed collaboration with the industry to enhance exposure opportunities, recommending various approaches.
Concerns were raised about professionals’ reluctance to share skills, prompting a call for tools to facilitate knowledge transfer. Ethical concerns regarding the competencies of some university lecturers were discussed, indicating a need for stricter recruitment standards. The importance of balancing academic qualifications with continuous professional development was emphasized, an aspect often overlooked by graduates. Attitudinal issues were addressed, emphasizing the need for a serious approach to professional futures, respect for work and supervisors, and an active pursuit of growth opportunities.
The workshop concluded with a consensus among stakeholders to implement recommendations within their respective institutions. The NELGA Secretariat committed to elevating these dialogues to the AU level through the CLPA 2023, aiming to garner the attention of policymakers in member countries. The collective effort to bridge the gap between academia and industry is a pivotal step toward creating a more robust and responsive land governance system in Botswana.
Related article: Closing the capacity gaps through young graduates in land governance.