Evaluating Alternative Dispute Resolution in Resolving Land Conflicts in Ifakara, Tanzania
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21749421 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Theresia Nicholaus Kamoleka (Ardhi University), Charles Lucian (Ardhi University) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 24 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Publication date | 2025-11-03 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | African Journal on Conflict Resolution (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1562-6997 • E-ISSN: 2309-737X |
| Publisher | Academy of Science of South Africa (PUBLISHER • ZA) |
| DOI | 10.17159/w35hqg31 |
| OpenAlex | W4407527866 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 11 |
Inter-village land disputes confronted by the Ifakara Town Council – a local governing authority in Tanzania – arise from socio-economic complexities, poor boundary demarcation, and weak institutional frameworks, making litigation ineffective. Despite the prevalence of these conflicts, there is limited understanding of how Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, particularly mediation, can address such issues in rural Tanzania. This study evaluates the applicability and effectiveness of ADR, with a focus on mediation, in resolving these disputes. Given the limitations of litigation, culturally appropriate ADR methods are essential for achieving sustainable conflict resolution. This research used a mixed-methods approach, collecting qualitative and quantitative data through interviews, document reviews, and questionnaires from stakeholders in four villages. The findings show that while ADR, especially mediation, is valued for its flexibility and cultural relevance, its effectiveness is limited by challenges such as poor boundary demarcation, bureaucratic delays, weak institutional capacity, and resistance from disputing parties. The study concludes that to enhance ADR effectiveness, structural issues like boundary demarcation and institutional weaknesses must be addressed
Dispute resolution · Political science · Socioeconomics · Sociology · Tanzania · Hydropower, Displacement, Environmental Impact · Land Rights and Reforms · Law · Transboundary Water Resource Management
| Citations per year | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2025 - 2025 (1) |
| Highly cited | No |