Dichotomy of Land Acquisition and Resettlement Frameworks- State versus Donor Supported Irrigation Projects in the SADC Region
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48346/IMIST.PRSM/ajlp-gs.v8i7.57823Keywords:
Donor support, Government-support, Irrigation projects, Land acquisition,, ResettlementAbstract
Context and Background
Land Acquisition and Resettlement (LAR) in irrigation development is a critical governance challenge in the SADC region. While essential for economic growth, LAR processes vary widely in compensation practices, legal compliance, and community engagement. Limited research exists comparing how different financing models—government-funded, donor-funded, and co-financed—affect LAR implementation, creating gaps in equitable and sustainable practices.
Goal and Objectives
This study analyzes how financing models influence LAR implementation in SADC irrigation projects. Specific objectives include:
- Categorizing projects by financing (government, donor, hybrid).
- Examining compensation mechanisms and legal compliance.
- Assessing stakeholder participation and inclusiveness.
- Recommending harmonized LAR frameworks for improved equity.
Methodology
A mixed-methods approach combined descriptive statistics, inferential analysis, and content analysis. Data from 188 SADC irrigation projects identified three LAR models:
- Infrastructure-Driven (Government-funded) – Prioritizes rapid development.
- Safeguard-Compliant (Donor-funded) – Adheres to international standards.
- Hybrid Model (Co-financed) – Blends state and donor approaches.
Findings
- Donor-funded projects excelled in safeguard compliance and participatory Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs).
- Government-funded projects often overlooked social safeguards for infrastructure speed.
- Stakeholder engagement was similar across models, but compensation and legal alignment varied significantly.
The results underscore the necessity of harmonized and inclusive LAR frameworks (LARFs) that ensure transparency, equity, and community engagement, regardless of funding source.
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