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Land Dispute Resolved Through Mediation in Mwanza Chiefdom
A land dispute involving members of the Choobe family and a buyer from Mwanza Chiefdom has been successfully resolved through mediation facilitated by the Monze District Land Alliance (MDLA).
Background of the Case
The case involved Mr. Nector Choobe (52) and his two sisters, Mr. Violent Choobe (48) and Ms. Ivory Choobe (61), all of Mwanza Chiefdom, who lodged a complaint regarding the unlawful sale of customary land.
The complainants reported that their elder brother, Mr. Sweane Choobe, sold a piece of customary land that had been inherited collectively by all siblings from their late father. The land was reportedly sold to Mr. Oberty Hamalala (34), also of Mwanza Chiefdom, without the consent of the other family members.
Mediation Process
On 17th October 2025, both parties were invited to the MDLA offices in Monze for mediation, one of the key conflict-resolution mechanisms used by the organization to address land disputes.
During mediation, Mr. Hamalala denied purchasing the land, stating instead that he had rented the field for seven years at a cost of K14,000.00. However, Mr. Sweane Choobe had earlier informed his siblings that he sold the land for K8,000.00 before relocating from Mwanza Chiefdom to an unknown destination.
Chief’s Guidance and Legal Position
After hearing both sides, MDLA paralegals consulted His Royal Highness Chief Mwanza to confirm whether any chiefdom by-law allowed land rental for such an extended period. The Chief clarified that no such by-law exists, stating that customary land may only be rented for one year, not seven.
Resolution and Outcome
Based on this guidance, MDLA staff members Mr. Innocent Mbozi and Ms. Precious Miyoba advised the complainants to refund K8,000.00, the amount Mr. Sweane Choobe had received from Mr. Hamalala.
Mr. Hamalala claimed he had paid an additional K6,000.00 to Mr. Sweane Choobe, which had not been disclosed to the family. He was advised to pursue recovery of that amount directly from the person who allegedly received it.
The case was amicably resolved with the agreement that:
The complainants would refund K8,000.00 to Mr. Hamalala by 31st October 2025; and
All parties acknowledged that customary land is not for sale, in line with the Land Act of 1995 of the Laws of Zambia.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of mediation, traditional leadership, and legal awareness in resolving customary land disputes. MDLA continues to play a vital role in promoting peaceful and lawful solutions to land-related conflicts within communities.
Posted on: December 18, 2025
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