Oromia region's Land Bureau has begun implementing a directive to make town residents homeowners, protect urban plans, and secure tenure. The directive, approved by the regional cabinet, does not apply to towns like Adama and Bishoftu that have modern land systems. Officials say it addresses longstanding housing legalization issues.
Addis Ababa, March 20, 2018 (Fana) — Oromia region's Land Bureau announced the start of implementing a directive to legalize existing housing in towns, making residents homeowners while safeguarding urban plans and tenure security. Approved by the regional cabinet's legislative arm, the measure supports modern land management and cadastre systems.
Land Bureau head Meseret Asefa stated that urban housing expansions had hindered modern land administration. To resolve this permanently, particularly in affected towns, the cabinet endorsed legalizing existing residences after studies. The directive is expected to greatly benefit towns by securing homeownership and urban planning.
However, it does not apply to Adama and Bishoftu, which have already adopted modern cadastre systems and digital land services. Officials noted these towns can achieve faster growth and revenue increases through foundational developments.
Regional Justice Bureau head Guyo Wario confirmed the directive covers the period from 2005 to Megabit 10, 2018. Urban plans are less than two years old, and the directive is prepared with clarity and accountability. It targets only those residing beyond legal expansion periods in towns, considering low registration rates and limiting to housing plot areas.