ABSTRACT

Land reform directly or indirectly redistributes and/or redefines property rights to agricultural land. Land ownership, and rights of use of land, has been central issues for many countries throughout history, and for many are issues of the day. They bear upon the livelihoods of rural and urban people, and can play a crucial role in economic development and environmental sustainability. The need for land reform is often spurred on by slow industrial development and insufficient employment opportunities. Unless carried out for reasons of moral or political ideology alone, what is generally crucial is that land reform should not only address issues of equity, but also productivity. Within this context, land reform has been pivotal to much development both throughout Africa and elsewhere. The need for programme to be backed by all key players including the private sector and civil society is emphasised. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book.