Land Recording Campaign continues to Boosts Customary Land Governance Across Malaita Communities

17/09/2026

Arabala Community Awareness

Land Recording Campaign continues to Boosts Customary Land Governance Across Malaita Communities

The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey, through its Tribal Land Recording Unit has has intensified its land recording awareness campaign across Malaita Province, conducting targeted consultations with four local communities to improve public understanding of customary land management. This brings the total to 8 communities since the campaign began this year. The program, carried out in collaboration with Malaita Provincial Government, community leaders, and local landowners,

Addressing community members during the awareness campaign, government representatives reassured landowners that land recording does not take away, alienate or transfer customary land ownership, but rather documents existing rights recognized under customary practices and usages.

Officials emphasized that reliable record-keeping protects customary rights while establishing a secure foundation for sustainable economic growth. Clear records enable communities to make informed decisions regarding infrastructure development, agricultural projects, and investment opportunities, while serving as an authoritative reference to resolve local ownership claims.

The consultation sessions across the four communities of Koa, Kunkwaikwai, Arabala and Gwaidinale ran from 17^th to 21^st August 2026 drawing strong participation from tribal chiefs, land owners women’s organizations, youth representatives, and local leaders. Participants engaged directly with government officers to address critical questions regarding land inheritance, boundary identification, and the legal mechanics of customary land recording. Community members welcomed the outreach, noting that a lack of clear administrative information has historically generated confusion and local conflicts.

Provincial leaders stressed the importance of inclusive decision-making, urging the active involvement of women and youth who will be impacted by future land development. Communities were encouraged to work together transparently when documenting traditional territory. Ministry officials confirmed that awareness campaigns will expand to additional communities across Malaita Province and other regions to build national confidence in land administration systems.

Government representatives reiterated that effective customary recording creates certainty for resource owners, supports community-led development, and preserves customary heritage for future generations. Authorities continue to urge landholding groups across Malaita Province to actively participate in the recording process to ensure traditional land information is accurately captured and maintained.