FAQS

The Manyatta Properties that are being offered for sale are Long Leaseholds derived from Tamico Ltd’s Tanzanian subsidiary’s Right of Occupancy  title. 

Tamico Ltd.’s Tanzanian subsidiary, Manyatta Development Co. Ltd. (MDCL) is a locally registered company that holds the Right of Occupancy title to 30 acres of land on the 100 acre Manyatta Estate; all as highlighted in green and yellow on the plots map. Those in green are individually held leaseholds while those in yellow are  held by MDCL.

 The Remaining 70 acres of Manyatta, including the roads, verges and unhighlighted plots are held by Manyatta Tanzania who are also service managers for the whole Estate.

🏠 1. Can foreigners buy land in Tanzania?

Foreigners cannot own land outright in Tanzania. All land is vested in the President as trustee for the nation, under the Land Act (1999). However, foreigners can acquire long-term land use rights (leases) if they are investing through an approved Tanzanian entity or the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC).

🧾 2. What does “Right of Occupancy” mean?

In Tanzania, land ownership is replaced by a Right of Occupancy (RoO) — a form of long-term lease granted by the government.

• These rights can be issued for 33, 66, or 99 years.
• Holders of RoO have almost the same rights as owners, including the ability to build, lease, mortgage, or transfer the land, subject to approval.

🌍 3. How can a foreigner legally obtain land in Tanzania?

Foreigners can access land in the following ways:

1. Through the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) – by applying for a Derivative Right (a lease from the TIC for investment purposes).
2. Via a Tanzanian company – registering a company locally (with or without Tanzanian shareholders) that applies for land rights.
3. By joint venture – partnering with a Tanzanian citizen or company that holds the land rights.
4. Leasing from a local owner – a long-term private lease (though technically the land remains under the Tanzanian holder’s name).

🏘️ 4. What are the types of land in Tanzania?

Tanzania recognises three main categories of land:

1. General Land – managed by the Ministry of Lands; can be leased or allocated for investment.
2. Village Land – under local village councils; mainly for residents and local use. Must be converted before foreign investment.
3. Reserved Land – protected areas such as forests, parks, or conservation zones.

📑 5. What due diligence should I perform before buying land?

Before entering any agreement:

• Verify the title deed with the Ministry of Lands.
• Ensure there are no existing disputes or encumbrances.
• Confirm the land’s zoning and permitted use.
• Obtain an official search at the Land Registry.
• Visit the site physically and meet local authorities.

🏡 6. Can a foreigner buy land for a home or holiday villa?

Yes — but only through an approved investment structure (via TIC or a registered Tanzanian company).
Private residential land cannot be owned directly by a foreign individual unless it forms part of a registered investment project (e.g. tourism or hospitality development).

🔁 7. Can land be transferred or sold later?

Yes, leasehold or derivative rights can be transferred, mortgaged, or sold, but only with approval from the Commissioner for Lands or TIC and subject to the lease terms.

🧑‍⚖️ 8. What happens when the lease expires?

When a Right of Occupancy or Derivative Right expires, it can be:

• Renewed, subject to approval and continued compliance; or
• Reverted to the state, if the leaseholder does not renew.

🪙 9. Are there taxes on land ownership or sale?

Yes, including:

• Property tax (on developed land);
• Capital gains tax when selling;
• Land rent (annual government fee); and
• Withholding tax on rental income (if leased).

🌍 10. Can non-residents hold land through a trust or nominee?

This is legally risky. Tanzania does not recognise nominee or trust arrangements for the purpose of bypassing foreign ownership restrictions. The lawful route is through the TIC or a registered Tanzanian company.

🔒 11. Is land tenure safe and reliable in Tanzania?

Yes, when land is properly titled and registered.
Investors with valid Rights of Occupancy or Derivative Rights are protected by law and may use the land as collateral, lease it, or develop it under Tanzanian regulations.

🧭 12. Can land disputes be resolved easily?

Land disputes are handled by:

• District Land and Housing Tribunals,
• The High Court (Land Division), or
• Mediation via local councils, depending on the case.
  It’s strongly advised to engage a local land lawyer before any purchase.i