Building an Open Land Information Infrastructure for Tenure Security and Climate Action in Africa

The session focused on the development of an open land information infrastructure in Africa, aiming to enhance tenure security and support climate action. Bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders—including civil society, government representatives, and academics—the roundtable explored the current state of land data in Africa, highlighting the legal and technical landscapes that shape access and transparency. Discussions began with an overview of existing land data and the legal infrastructure governing data use, underscoring the inconsistencies and gaps that often hinder effective data sharing across the continent. The conversation then moved to technical achievements and obstacles, celebrating progress in opening up land data while acknowledging challenges related to data collection, standardization, and accessibility. Panelists emphasized that an inclusive and open data environment is crucial for informed land governance and sustainable land management practices, yet technical limitations and resource constraints remain significant barriers. The session delved into the social dimensions of open data, particularly issues of privacy and equity. Concerns were raised about how to ensure that open data initiatives are perceived as socially legitimate, avoiding potential biases or exclusions that could marginalize certain communities. Looking ahead, the roundtable identified opportunities to foster a more transparent and inclusive data ecosystem in Africa. Panelists suggested focusing on "low-hanging fruits," such as improving data interoperability, enhancing legal frameworks, and investing in capacity building for local data management. The dialogue highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between openness and privacy, advocating for a socially responsible approach that respects local contexts while promoting broader access to land information. Ultimately, the session underscored that building an open land information infrastructure is a pathway to more equitable land tenure, improved climate resilience, and sustainable development, with a clear call for collaborative efforts to ensure the long-term success and legitimacy of data initiatives in Africa.


This resource has been made available by the organizers of the World Bank Land Conference under the following disclaimer.