The government has lifted the ban on the allocation of public lands and introduced a new system that standardizes market values while moving the application process online to enhance transparency and efficiency.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, is part of broader reforms aimed at modernizing land administration and restoring public confidence in the country’s land management system.
Announcing the reforms, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Yusif Sulemana, said the government has introduced a revised Form 5 as the mandatory application instrument for acquiring public land nationwide.
According to him, the revised Form 5 will now serve as the only approved application form for public land acquisition across the country. The form will be available for download on the website of the Lands Commission and can also be submitted electronically, making the process more convenient and accessible to the public.
Mr Sulemana explained that the reform also introduces standardized market values for public lands, a measure designed to ensure fairness and consistency in land pricing while reducing discretionary practices that often lead to disputes and delays.
He noted that digitizing the application process will significantly reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve the speed with which applications are processed.
“The move demonstrates government’s commitment to responsible land administration, transparency, and efficiency in the management of public lands,” he said.
To ensure smooth implementation of the new system, the Ministry has set up a taskforce in collaboration with the Lands Commission to oversee the rollout. The team will supervise the process, provide technical support to applicants, and ensure compliance with the new procedures.
Officials believe the reforms, particularly the online application system and standardized land valuation framework, will strengthen accountability in the allocation of public lands and make it easier for citizens seeking legitimate access to state lands.
