Land Reform in East Africa: Socio-Economic Impacts in Cameroon

Land reform policies in East Africa have been implemented to address issues of land tenure insecurity and promote equitable access to resources. Cameroon is an example where such reforms are being considered or already underway, with significant socio-economic implications. The research employs semi-structured interviews with stakeholders including farmers, community leaders, and government officials. A thematic analysis approach is used to identify recurring themes and patterns within the data collected over six months in selected regions of Cameroon. Interviews revealed that while some farmers benefited from increased access to land through formalization processes, others faced challenges related to tenure security and lack of legal documentation, leading to ongoing disputes. The qualitative insights suggest a need for more comprehensive support systems to assist those affected by the reforms, particularly in resolving conflicts and ensuring sustainable outcomes. Policy makers should consider implementing additional measures such as community-based dispute resolution mechanisms alongside formal land registration processes to enhance inclusivity and stability.