The Zanzibar government has announced plans to integrate the Zanzibar Identity Card (Zan ID) with land ownership records using a digital system. This initiative aims to improve the accuracy of records, prevent fraud and reduce land disputes. The project, known as the Land Registration and Information System (LARIS), is being implemented by French company IGN FI in collaboration with local government experts.
The LARIS project coordinator, Ibrahim Khalid Mambo, revealed the plan during a training session for journalists on October 29, 2026. He explained that linking Zan ID details to the system will help verify land ownership and plot information while preventing the unlawful use of land records. The system will not hinder individuals without a Zan ID from owning land, but rather ensure that every landowner has accurate records to prevent disputes.
The LARIS system will consolidate land ownership, surveying, urban planning, registration and land-use information currently held by different public institutions. This is expected to simplify access to land services and improve the management of land records. The system will also help address unplanned urban growth, uncontrolled construction and improper land use, which are putting pressure on access to social services in Zanzibar.
The two-year project, which began in June 2026 and will run until May 2028, has nine key components. These include establishing a land information centre and service centres across Zanzibar's regions, improving surveying reference points, preparing geographical and land data, and developing a master land-use plan for Unguja. The project also involves digitising land documents, establishing an integrated land information system and strengthening staff capacity.
According to Jacqueline Laisser, LARIS communications and capacity-building officer, the system will help reduce disputes and strengthen peace and security in communities. She noted that land identified as being under dispute will not be subject to further action until the matter has been resolved, preventing additional complications. The system is also expected to support better land policies, urban management and local governance at the shehia level.
The LARIS project follows the recent launch of Zanzibar's Urban and Housing Policy, which seeks to guide urban growth, promote proper land use and support the development of safe, affordable and quality housing. The policy and LARIS project are expected to help address unplanned urban development, control improper land use and construction, and establish sustainable policy measures in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Land expert Raya Akida Haji welcomed the initiative, saying it will help address unplanned urban development and establish sustainable policy measures. The integration of Zan ID with land ownership records is a significant step towards improving land management in Zanzibar, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the community.
Key points
- The Zanzibar government plans to link identity cards with land ownership records to improve accuracy and reduce disputes.
- The Land Registration and Information System (LARIS) project will consolidate land ownership, surveying, urban planning, registration and land-use information.
- The initiative follows the recent launch of Zanzibar's Urban and Housing Policy, which seeks to guide urban growth and promote proper land use.
