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Practicality of Blockchain Technology for Land Registration: A Namibian Case Study

Author

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  • Johannes Pandeni Paavo

    (Department of Computing, Mathematical & Statistical Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek 13301, Namibia)

  • Rafael Rodríguez-Puentes

    (Department of Computing, Mathematical & Statistical Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek 13301, Namibia)

  • Uchendu Eugene Chigbu

    (Institute for Land Livelihood and Housing (ILLH), Department of Land and Spatial Sciences, Namibia University of Science and Technology, 13 Jackson Kaujeua, Windhoek 13388, Namibia)

Abstract

In the context of the information age, a land administration system must be technologically driven to manage land information and data transparently. This ensures the registration and protection of land rights for people. In this study, we present a Blockchain Land Registration system designed as a tool for enhancing land administration in South Saharan Africa (SSA). Drawing inspiration from Namibia, we have developed a user interface comprising a homepage/landing page, a users’ registration form, a login form that incorporates MetaMask authentication prompts, and an authenticated dashboard for landowners and purchasers. Design Science was employed as the methodology for this proposal. Being technical design research for solving a land administration problem (that of inefficient land registration), the technical solution identified involves system design, the development of blockchain integration and testing, and development aspects. Based on this approach, blockchain was conceptualised as an “artefact” that could be investigated as a technical solution to address the challenges posed by inefficient land registration. This study provides a comprehensive roadmap for the conceptualisation, development, validation, and deployment of a blockchain-based land titles registry suitable for SSA countries. It also explores a discussion on the practical and policy implications of blockchain in land administration in SSA countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Johannes Pandeni Paavo & Rafael Rodríguez-Puentes & Uchendu Eugene Chigbu, 2025. "Practicality of Blockchain Technology for Land Registration: A Namibian Case Study," Land, MDPI, vol. 14(8), pages 1-24, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:14:y:2025:i:8:p:1626-:d:1722812
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Hull, Simon Antony, 2024. "All for one and one for all? Exploring the nexus of land administration, land management and land governance," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 144(C).
    2. Uchendu Eugene Chigbu & Tobias Bendzko & Menare Royal Mabakeng & Elias Danyi Kuusaana & Derek Osei Tutu, 2021. "Fit-for-Purpose Land Administration from Theory to Practice: Three Demonstrative Case Studies of Local Land Administration Initiatives in Africa," Land, MDPI, vol. 10(5), pages 1-24, May.
    3. Ansah, Barikisa Owusu & Voss, Winrich & Asiama, Kwabena Obeng & Wuni, Ibrahim Yahaya, 2023. "A systematic review of the institutional success factors for blockchain-based land administration," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 125(C).
    4. Ameyaw, Prince Donkor & de Vries, Walter Timo, 2023. "Blockchain technology adaptation for land administration services: The importance of socio-cultural elements," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 125(C).
    5. Mintah, Kwabena & Boateng, Festival Godwin & Baako, Kingsley Tetteh & Gaisie, Eric & Otchere, Gideon Kwame, 2021. "Blockchain on stool land acquisition: Lessons from Ghana for strengthening land tenure security other than titling," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 109(C).
    6. Ali, Daniel Ayalew & Deininger, Klaus & Mahofa, Godfrey & Nyakulama, Rhona, 2021. "Sustaining land registration benefits by addressing the challenges of reversion to informality in Rwanda," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 110(C).
    7. Chigbu, Uchendu Eugene & Paradza, Gaynor & Nghitevelekwa, Romie Vonkie & Klaus, Michael, 2024. "Current research and opinion on land governance for societal development in and on the global south," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 141(C).
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