Unlocking local economic development in the Ingonyama Trust Land through land scheme development. The case of Dududu, KZN.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate a land development system that is most appropriate for unlocking LED potential in the Ingonyama Trust Land for the community at Dududu Village. The land under the Ingonyama Trust Board administration holds huge potential in unlocking Local Economic Development in the rural areas. However, it is believed that the lack of both tenure security and access to Ingonyama Trust Land has been the barrier of economic and social development for rural areas within the Ugu District. What prompted the study was the fact that there had been very little research conducted around the area of Dududu as to why the LED focused projects in the area are not implemented. The common challenge that was usually given during the IDP development process was the issue of land security and availability. Furthermore, there were many feasibility studies that had been conducted in the area but projects were never implemented because of the unavailability of land, even though they have proven to be feasible. The majority of the land in Dududu falls under the Ingonyama Trust Land and with the feasibility studies proving LED projects viable, the issue of land as a driver of LED needed further investigation. The theoretical approach of the research is based on three broad theories which are namely, Local Economic Development, Land Tenure and Traditional Leadership. The qualitative methodology approach was employed and purposive sampling was used. Sixteen, in-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with respondents from the Traditional Authority, Government Sector, Community and Business Community. Data was analysed through the application of thematic analysis. The key findings indicated the challenges faced when it comes to land development and control in rural / traditional areas and recommendations of the options that are available to mitigate these challenges were made. The key findings have been grouped into eight themes which are namely; land potential in Dududu; access to Ingonyama Trust land; land tenure security; administration of Ingonyama Trust land funds; indigenous land use management in Ingonyama Trust Land; the land use management system and getting the community involved; key stakeholders and responsibilities; and stimulating local economic development in Ingonyama Trust land.