Advancing accountability through people-centered land data

Across Africa, communities are using land data to drive change. National Land Coalitions in eight countries are leading powerful efforts to make land rights visible, actionable, and accountable. Here’s how data is shifting the narrative — and power — back to the people.

Across Africa, the movement to center people’s voices in land governance is gaining critical momentum. As part of ILC Africa’s 2024 priorities, National Land Coalitions (NLCs) in Burundi, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Uganda are on track to conclude their annual data cycles by May. These efforts mark a milestone in transforming community land realities into evidence for action.

However, this work is not limited to four countries. In Malawi, South Sudan, South Africa, and Zambia, NLCs continue to strengthen their data strategies, collecting and analyzing information that directly supports national advocacy goals. With sustained support, these coalitions ensure data quality, strategic relevance, and local ownership.

Why does this matter?

Because data is power, when land data is created by and for the people, it becomes a tool for justice.

By investing in community-generated data, we are investing in a more equitable future, one where decisions about land are made with, not for, the people.

We are seeing real impact. From elevating customary land rights in Burundi to driving community engagement in Tanzania and exposing gaps in land service delivery in South Africa, people’s data is driving change across the continent.

Share your story

How is people’s data shifting power in your country? What changes are you seeing or demanding? We invite all members to contribute reflections, photos, or short stories to d.omukunde@landcoalition.org. Your experience can inspire others and build collective momentum