In Cameroon, the expropriation of land is governed by the Land Tenure Law of 1974 and subsequent amendments. The procedures for expropriation of land in Cameroon are as follows:
1. Notification: The government or a private entity seeking to expropriate land must first notify the landowner in writing of their intention to expropriate the land. The notification must include the reasons for the expropriation, the proposed compensation, and a deadline for the landowner to respond.
2. Negotiation: The landowner and the expropriating entity must then enter into negotiations to determine the compensation for the expropriated land. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the matter may be referred to a court for resolution.
3. Valuation: An independent valuation of the land must be conducted to determine the fair market value of the expropriated land. The compensation offered to the landowner must be based on this valuation.
4. Compensation: The landowner is entitled to fair and prompt compensation for the expropriated land. The compensation may include the market value of the land, any improvements made to the land, and any loss of income resulting from the expropriation.
5. Legal proceedings: If the landowner disputes the expropriation or the compensation offered, they may file a legal challenge in court. The court will then review the case and make a determination on the expropriation and compensation.
6. Possession: Once the compensation has been paid, the expropriating entity may take possession of the land. The landowner must vacate the land and allow the expropriating entity to use it for the intended purpose.
It is important for both the expropriating entity and the landowner to follow the legal procedures outlined in the Land Tenure Law to ensure a fair and transparent process for the expropriation of land in Cameroon.
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Google Gemini AI
Jul 13
Procedures for Expropriation of Land in Cameroon
1. Initiation of the Expropriation Process
- The initiator (usually a public authority or entity acting in the public interest) submits a formal request to the Minister in charge of Land Affairs. - The request must include: - Justification for the expropriation, including the public purpose it will serve. - Description and location of the land to be expropriated. - Proposed compensation and resettlement plan for affected persons.
2. Notification and Hearing
- The Minister notifies the owners and holders of rights on the land about the intended expropriation. - A public hearing is held to gather objections or observations from affected persons.
3. Survey and Appraisal
- A survey and appraisal of the land is conducted to determine its value.
4. Declaration of Public Utility
- Based on the survey and appraisal, the President of the Republic issues a decree declaring the land being expropriated as being of public utility. - This decree specifies the purpose of the expropriation and the date of its taking effect.
5. Determination of Compensation
- The expropriating authority calculates the compensation due to affected persons. - Compensation must include: - Market value of the land. - Compensation for improvements and crops. - Damages for loss of income or livelihood. - Resettlement and relocation costs.
6. Payment of Compensation
- The expropriating authority pays the compensation to affected persons. - If compensation is disputed, the matter can be brought before a competent court.
7. Taking of Possession
- Once the compensation has been paid, the expropriating authority takes possession of the land.
Additional Notes:
- Expropriation must be for a public purpose and must be carried out in a fair and equitable manner. - Affected persons have the right to challenge the expropriation proceedings or the amount of compensation awarded. - The government has the power to expropriate land for the following reasons: - National security. - Public health and safety. - Economic development. - Environmental protection.