Preface

Land tenure security is fundamental to social and political stability, agricultural and industrial production, economic development and a healthy natural environment. Developing countries in particular are grappling with the challenge of formulating and implementing land policies that are both affordable and appropriate to their particular circumstances.

The International Conference on Land Tenure in the Developing World with a focus on Southern Africa, held at the University of Cape Town from 27-29 January 1998, is of particular significance to the region. Its principal aim is to contribute to the advancement of policy formulation and the development of statutory and technical strategies to address land tenure questions in the developing world. Furthermore, the conference should enhance knowledge and understanding of the contribution of the various disciplines in the field. The multi-disciplinary nature of the conference is reflected in the list of delegates and the papers presented. The strong international contribution to the meeting on land tenure questions that have emerged elsewhere also ensures that the meeting is outward looking for Southern African participants. If the conference is a success, it is so because of the opportunity for extensive interaction between local and international participants and interaction between participants from an array of academic and professional disciplines. The Proceedings incorporate most of the papers presented. The Department of Geomatics has published the proceedings on behalf of the organisers and the sponsors. The contents of the Proceedings have been determined by the editor and reflect the authors' opinions, published as submitted and without change. Their inclusion in this publication does not necessarily constitute endorsement by the editor or publishers.

Michael Barry
January 1998

Acknowledgements

I thank the following members of the orgainsing committee; B Cousins, J Grimm, W Honu, J Whittall and W Zimmermann for their contribution towards the success of this conference. In particular I thank Glaudin Kruger who was responsible for the administration and organisation of the conference and the preparation of these Proceedings.

Michael Barry
Department of Geomatics