Land Audit Flags Unregistered Plots, Poor Records in Lilongwe

LILONGWE, Malawi — A land ownership audit in Lilongwe’s Areas 3 and 10 has uncovered widespread plot registration gaps, poor records management, irregular allocations and weaknesses in the collection of ground rent and development charges, writes Bridgette Mwanoka.

Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development Chimwemwe Chipungu said most plots in the two areas are not registered, raising concerns over land tenure security and the reliability of ownership records.

Chipungu disclosed the findings Wednesday, Aug. 12, during a media briefing in Lilongwe on the outcome of the land ownership audit, which was launched in February as a pilot exercise ahead of a planned national rollout.

The audit found that the Ministry is relying on cadastral layout maps dating back to 2016, meaning subsequent subdivisions, extensions, infill plots and amalgamations are not adequately reflected in official records.

Available records show that Area 3 has 791 allocated plots, while Area 10 has 604. However, fragmented records made it difficult for auditors to establish the exact number of surveyed plots available for allocation.

Auditors also struggled to trace critical land documents, including survey drawings, development approvals, lease transfers, deed plans, lease agreements and receipts for ground rent and development charges.

The audit further found that some plots have remained undeveloped for more than 24 months after being offered on lease, while others have undergone unauthorised changes in land use or physical development.

Plots were also allegedly created or allocated in reserve, conservation and flood-prone areas.

The audit identified additional weaknesses in the allocation process, including a non-functional plot allocation committee, overlapping responsibilities and questionable survey and lease documents.

Chipungu said the Ministry will consolidate cadastral maps, strengthen records management and retrieval systems, revive the plot allocation committee and enforce compliance with land laws.

The Ministry will also pursue outstanding ground rent and development charges and take action against illegal developments and plots allocated in protected or flood-prone areas.

The audit was prompted by rising land disputes and allegations of land grabbing, double allocation and the use of fraudulent ownership documents.