The threat of land loss is increasingly present throughout Africa. Large international investors have begun a massive land purchase with mining targets or mere speculation, among other objectives. This is causing small farmers to lose the land that they depend on to eat and earn a living to large corporations.

In Angola, the Land Act is actually existing and should potentially be used to resolve the existing conflict. However, the authorities do not have the knowledge or the means to implement the law in favor of the poorest farmers. At the same time, the small family farmers need support and help in claiming the titles of their lands.

Therefore, together with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) CODESPA is supporting local authorities to pass the first legalizations of land ownership of small family farms in the province of Bié.

We are carrying out training with all the public institutions involved in the process of the legalization and holding of land. Together with FAO, we are supporting a land delimitation methodology that favors the resolution of existing conflicts. We also inform local rural communities about the existence of the Land Act as well as on their rights and how to legalize their land.

For small family farms, land legalization is the first step towards increased income and better living conditions. Once Farmers legalize land property they can avoid possible illegal acquisitions by large companies. By using their property as a guarantee, farmers can also access microcredits that they can use to make small investments and improve crop productivity. Finally, small farmers can make use of the land according to their needs.