The Contribution of Customary Land Titles to Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment in Tanzania: A Case Study of Mbozi District, Songwe Region.

Abstract

This study examines the contribution of Customary Land Titles (CLTs) to the economic empowerment of rural women. Specifically, the study aimed to analyse the policy environment surrounding women’s access to CLTs in Tanzania; examine the extent to which women in Mbozi District access CLTs for economic empowerment; investigate the challenges women face in obtaining CLTs; and determine the benefits of CLTs for women’s economic empowerment in the district. Guided by the Sustainable Livelihood Framework, and Liberal and Radical Feminist theories, the research adopts a pragmatist philosophy, employing mixed methods research approach for data triangulation. A cross-sectional survey research design was conducted with 145 women holding CLTs, selected through purposive and snowball sampling from eight wards and villages. Data were gathered via questionnaires, focus group discussions (FGDs), in-depth interviews, and secondary sources. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis, while quantitative data were processed using SPSS. The findings revealed that 71.7% of respondents were aware of Tanzania’s Land Policy and customary land ownership. However, 85.5% of the women cited challenges, with patriarchal domination being the most significant barrier for their access to CLTs. Despite these challenges, access to CLTs greatly enhanced rural women’s household economies, enabling 90.3% to use their land titles as collateral for loans. CLTs also contributed to gender equality, improved food security, and poverty reduction. The study concludes that increased awareness of land policies has improved women's access to CLTs, strengthening their decision-making power, income, and access to social services. Nevertheless, patriarchal practices, traditional inheritance systems, and socio-economic barriers continue to limit women’s full access to CLTs. The study recommends that the government and policymakers review land policies, promote educational campaigns to raise awareness of CLT rights, and work to eliminate patriarchal and traditional practices that obstruct women’s economic empowerment through land ownership.