LandNet is an Africa-wide network that brings together policy makers, academics and civil society (on a round table) to work on land related issues. These issues are especially related to land reform and land policy implementation, including land dispute management and mitigation. The Rwanda Chapter of LandNet Africa was officially launched on 21st September 2000.
LandNet Rwanda Chapter is the first and the only network in Rwanda that deals with land issues. It is therefore viewed by various actors as a major opportunity in Rwanda in strengthening the capacity of civil society to engage in policy issues, as the best way towards sustainable development.
LandNet Rwanda Chapter is the first and the only network in Rwanda that deals with land issues. It is therefore viewed by various actors as a major opportunity in Rwanda in strengthening the capacity of civil society to engage in policy issues, as the best way towards sustainable development.
Mission
The mission of LandNet Rwanda Chapter is: “to contribute to equitable and sustainable land reform through inclusive actions and processes”.
Objectives
The goal of LandNet Rwanda Chapter is to build and strengthen the capacity of the Rwandan civil society to be able to engage and dialogue with Government, local leaders and donors on land policy and mainstreaming land issues in the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) of the Government of Rwanda.
Achievements
Coordination
LandNet Rwanda Chapter was actively engaged in the formulation process of the Land Policy and the Land Law, by reviewing the drafts, giving input into discussions in the Parliament and lobbying the Parliamentary Commission responsible for land. LandNet Rwanda Chapter 's views were taken on board and particular request for amendment were followed by policy makers:
(1) The statement that land below 1 ha should not be registered
(2) The gender consideration on inheritance, which was originally not clear enough in the eyes of LandNet Rwanda Chapter was revised and specified
Through effective advocacy, the two issues were accepted for inclusion even though the draft policy had already reached the cabinet for discussion. Until today LandNet Rwanda Chapter remains engaged in the review of current laws and policies in place regarding land. The network is checking for any weakness or gaps and providing feedback to the Ministry, so contributing to equitable and sustainable land reform, a process that is highly appreciated by the Ministry of Natural Resources.
This form of civil society engagement through a strong network, combining the strengths of all members, paved the way for civil society participation in the formulation and implementation of national policies in Rwanda and opened space for an effective and continuous state and non-state actor dialogue.
After the formulation of the Land Policy and Land Law, LandNet Rwanda Chapter accompanied the implementation process of the land reform in Rwanda through constant monitoring and documentation, especially in relation to the impacts of the reform for vulnerable groups, as well as support in public awareness campaigns and the implementation of programs aiming to reduce land disputes that come about during the land policy implementation. All projects are done in close collaboration with the Ministry through the Rwanda Natural Resources Authority (RNRA) pursuing the chosen dialogue approach between civil society and government institutions.
The success of Rwanda land reform is due to this inclusive and open process that brought civil society on board. Civil society plays a critical role of analysis and pointing out the grassroots needs, documenting lessons and providing data during implementation and monitoring phases. This is crucial to identify gaps and areas for improvement one the one side and supports the government, which is more concerned with delivery due to different demands, on the other side.
Coordination
Currently the network is coordinated by Rwanda Initiative for Sustainable Development (RISD), a local NGO with a good track record in research and advocacy on land related issues, both at national, and international levels.