In a pivotal moment at CLPA 2023 on November 23, 2023, the collaborative efforts of the African Union and GIZ came to fruition with the launch of the African Union’s Land Governance Strategy. Ambassador Stefan Auer succinctly captured the essence, stating, “Providing secure access to land triggers positive economic, social, and political behaviors, especially among low-income families and rural agrarian communities.”

Ambassador Auer went on to underscore the urgency of effective land governance, emphasizing its indispensable role in achieving the African Union Agenda 2063 and UN Sustainable Development Goals. The strategy, a comprehensive framework, seeks to unlock Africa’s substantial arable land, poised to act as a catalyst for substantial economic growth and poverty reduction.

Highlighting the German support, Ambassador Auer spotlighted key initiatives such as the Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA). Over the past six years, the African Land Policy Centre (ALPC), with technical support from GIZ, has significantly bolstered capacities, implementing educational programs and facilitating policy integration at national levels.

The launch of the African Union’s Land Governance Strategy marks a significant stride towards collaboration among African countries, private sectors, and development partners. This strategy is not merely a document; it signifies a collective commitment to secure and enhance land rights, fostering sustainable development across the continent.

As the conference provided a crucial forum for collaboration and knowledge sharing, the German Government commended the development of the Land Governance Strategy. The launch was a success, with high expectations of far-reaching implications for Africa’s sustainable development.

Looking forward, the African Union’s Land Governance Strategy is poised to become a cornerstone in fostering cooperation. It is anticipated to lay the groundwork for enhanced collaboration among African nations, private sectors, and development partners to secure and enhance land rights, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for the continent. The strategy is not just a milestone; it is a commitment to a transformative journey that will shape the trajectory of Africa’s land governance and, by extension, its socio-economic landscape.