Urban land management under rapid urbanization: Exploring the link between urban land policies and urban land use efficiency in Ethiopia
Nesru H. Koroso, Jaap A. Zevenbergen
Ethiopia’s rapid urbanization over the past two decades has led to the conversion of agricultural land to urban
use. However, this expansion has been largely unplanned, resulting in numerous urban land management
challenges. These gaps have hindered efficient urban land use, a critical component of sustainable urban
development. This study examines the impact of current institutional environment on urban land use efficiency
(ULUE) in Ethiopia and explores why urban land policies have not been translated into effective land management
and sustainable practices. Using a case study approach and qualitative method, the research identifies
institutional factors that influence ULUE, drawing on the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework
and the Institutional Credibility thesis. The study identifies several factors that contribute to low ULUE,
including an inefficient land transfer market, tenure insecurity and land hoarding. These problems are exacerbated
by gaps in policy formulation and implementation, including inadequate human and technical capacity,
unrealistic spatial planning, and weak urban land governance. To improve ULUE, an effective land transfer
market, tenure security and land policies that discourage land hoarding are essential. Addressing shortcomings in
the legal framework and strengthening urban land governance and institutional capacity are key steps.
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