A review of the Enabling Environment for Transformative Land Investment in Ethiopia, Ghana and Mozambique

Abstract

Sub-Saharan African development strategies emphasize optimizing agricultural and forestry resources through foreign and domestic investments in large-scale farms and plantations. While these land-based initiatives are believed to enhance economic development, concerns arise regarding their impact on marginalized groups and the environment. Issues like land tenure security and the agri-food sector's investment climate play pivotal roles, highlighting the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making involving local communities. Goal and Objectives This study reviews the legal and policy frameworks to analyze the enabling environment for sustainable and inclusive land-based investment in Ethiopia, Ghana, and Mozambique Methodology This research comprised two phases of literature reviews. The first phase evaluated existing legal frameworks and incentive mechanisms for inclusive and green investment in each country. The second phase focused on peer-reviewed studies investigating the practices of land-based agricultural investments and the effects on tenure, food security, environment, and social well-being. The findings were systematically analyzed, and the country-level results were presented at national Multi-Stakeholders Platform (MSP) workshops for validation and in-depth analysis by a diverse participant group. Results Various legal and policy frameworks exist concerning land, resources, and property rights, alongside incentive mechanisms to attract investors. However, the research reveals that there are contradictions between the way investment is conceived and promoted and the common Constitutional recognition of land as communal property. Customary laws positively influence land and resource management but may restrict women's land rights with varying applications by region. Inconsistent implementation of investment incentives, particularly in the inefficient and non-transparent land acquisition process, is noted. The findings suggest policy recommendations for multi-stakeholder platforms and communities of practice to drive transformative changes in land-based investments. Implications Enabling conditions for transformative land investment encompass legally and socially legitimate tenure systems, a robust land use plan and monitoring system, promotion of inclusivity among women, youth, and indigenous communities in land governance, improved government agency coordination for better land policy implementation, heightened awareness of environmental consequences, and facilitation of green and inclusive investment through fiscal incentives.