Assessment of Environmental Safeguard Integration in Land Tenure Regularization Using GIS Suitability Analysis and Ground Verification: Evidence from Mbarali District, Tanzania

Abstract

This study assessed the extent to which environmental safeguards were integrated into the implementation of the Land Tenure Improvement Project in Mbarali District, Mbeya Region, a semi-arid ecosystem bordering the Ruaha National Park and encompassing the Usangu wetland system. The study employed GIS-based suitability analysis using the Analytical Hierarchy Process, field verification through physical observations and Key Informant Interviews, and legal document review. Findings reveal significant discrepancies between GIS model classifications and field-verified environmental conditions across seven study wards. Several sites classified as moderately suitable by the GIS/AHP model were identified as environmentally hazardous through ground verification, including waterlogged areas in Igurusi, erosion-prone gullies in Rujewa and Ubaruku, and floodplain areas in Kongolo Mswiswi. Rujewa, Igurusi, Kongolo Mswiswi, and Ubaruku wards exhibited higher concentrations of environmentally sensitive land compared to Lugelele, Mapogoro, and Madibira. The study concludes that GIS suitability modeling alone is insufficient for environmental safeguard compliance in land regularization and must be complemented by systematic field verification, legal compliance assessment, and stakeholder engagement. Strengthened institutional capacity, inter-agency coordination, and integration of climate resilience considerations are essential for sustainable Land Tenure Improvement Project Implementation.

Keywords: Land tenure improvement, Environmental safeguards, GIS suitability analysis, hazardous land