By: Sarah Baafi
The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Sulemana Yusif, has officially inaugurated the North East Regional Lands Commission Board, marking a significant step in decentralizing land administration in the region.
The ceremony took place on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the Regional Coordinating Council in the North East Region, where 12 officers were sworn in to serve on the board.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Sulemana Yusif expressed gratitude to the Chiefs and people of the North East Region for their cooperation in bringing land services closer to the community.
He highlighted the mandate of the Lands Commission under the Lands Commission Act, 2008 (Act 767), which includes advising government bodies, district assemblies, and traditional authorities on land policy and ensuring land development aligns with regional plans.
“The decentralization of land administration, which this inauguration represents, is a key pillar of the government’s strategy,” Hon. Sulemana Yusif stated. “By establishing functional regional lands commissions across the country, we bring land services closer to the people, reduce costs and travel time, and empower regional and local stakeholders to take ownership of land governance processes.”
The newly inaugurated board comprises representatives from diverse sectors, including legal experts, surveyors, farmers, fishermen, and assembly members, with Lawyer Issah Kaponde serving as Chairman.
Regional Minister Ibrahim Tia expressed confidence in the board’s ability to address pressing land issues such as boundary disputes, encroachment, compensation, tenure insecurity, and delays in land transactions.
“The composition of this constituted board is a vital step toward ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the use of our lands for sustainable development,” he said.
