Harnessing the power of negotiation to overcome the challenges of informal settlements in regularization projects. (The case of Dodoma, Tanzania)

Context and background Participatory planning has been advocated throughout history. This paper examines the negotiations with landowners aimed at addressing challenges in informal settlements, particularly in urban areas. To gather data on these negotiations during the regularization process, in-depth interviews were conducted with landowners and official interviews were held with experts. Results: The research findings reveal that the complexity of land rights and development in informal settlements often leaves experts with no choice but to engage in negotiations. These negotiations address a variety of issues, including plot boundaries, land use, land conflicts, the provision of community facilities, and access areas such as roads and footpaths. In regularization projects, negotiations have been focused on resolving issues such as access roads, settling land conflicts, designating areas for public use, and fostering consensus among stakeholders. This process requires building trust between landowners and the technical team, as well as ensuring inclusivity throughout the regularization process.