IN THE HEART OF WEST AFRICA LIES TOGO, A NATION WITH A RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE, BUT FACING COMPLEX CHALLENGES IN LAND GOVERNANCE.
In 2022, the National Land Coalition (NLC) in Togo embarked on a transformative journey to implement the Land Code at the grassroots level, bringing hope and security to its rural communities. The Land Code advocated for secure, equitable rural land rights, combating land grabbing, advancing community land registration, and improving policies and practices related to land and natural resource management, small-scale farming, and food security.
Nestled in the municipality of Amou 3, the village of Illico Ogome, was one of the first communities to benefit from the Land Code.
Chief Semenou Ankou, a dedicated advocate for his community.
His unwavering commitment to securing land rights for his people set the stage for the transformational journey that followed.
"THE LAND CODE REGISTRATION HAS BEEN A GAME-CHANGER FOR OUR COMMUNITY. IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT PIECES OF LAND; IT'S ABOUT SECURING OUR FUTURE. WITH THE LAND CODE, WE HAVE A VOICE, AND A SAY IN OUR DESTINY. OUR COMMUNITY IS MORE UNITED THAN EVER, AND OUR LAND IS A SOURCE OF PRIDE."
Before the Land Code, land disputes were a constant source of tension.
Now, with their land rights secured, they have peace of mind.
They can plan for the future, invest in their farms, and ensure their children inherit a stable home.
Dossavi at his maize farm
Born in Illico Ogome, Dossavi, when younger, experienced land conflict. This forced him to flee to the city in search of a livelihood, which was not forthcoming. Upon his return to the village, the National Land Coalition (NLC) was piloting land rights recognition through the adoption of the Land Code.
"The Land Code isn't just for the older generation. It's our future too. We now have our own land, and it's liberating. We can grow crops and sustain our families. It's not just about the land; it's about empowerment."
Dossavi with his family
In the community of Illico Ogome, the Land Code paved the way for gender equality.
The National Land Coalition (NLC) in Togo promoted gender equity and justice by empowering women to ensure their representation in land-related decisions.
"The Land Code has opened doors for us that were once firmly shut."
Through the code, the members of Illico Ogome community were able to define and map their boundaries in a participatory manner, thus fostering unity and empowerment.
The process was facilitated by the community chief and included conciliation meetings between neighboring communities.
Chief Semonou shows the demarcated community land boundary.
The community members' sentiments on the Land Code registration reflect the impact it has had on their lives and their communities.
It goes beyond legal documents; it signifies empowerment, unity, and the promise of a brighter future.
