Exploring Perceptions of Land Tenure Security and Its Implications in Northern BeninExploring Perceptions of Land Tenure Security and Its Implications in Northern Benin
Land tenure security is a fundamental aspect of agricultural development, influencing farmers’ decisions regarding investment, productivity, and livelihood sustainability. While numerous studies have examined the impacts of secure land tenure on agricultural outcomes, there remains a notable gap in understanding the attached consequences associated with farmers’ perceptions of land tenure security in the context of Northern Benin. Our study aims to address this gap by investigating the local perceptions of land tenure security and its consequences across various socio-demographic groups in the region. It investigated local perceptions of secure land tenure using mental models centered on the Attestation de Détention Coutumière (ADC), a customary land title used in Northern Benin. A total of 300 participants across ten villages constructed cognitive maps using a tablet-based tool (M-Tool), linking ADC to a set of 12 pre-defined icons representing the perceived consequences of secure tenure, including agricultural investment, food security, conflict reduction, and women’s empowerment.
Quantitative analysis revealed that participants largely associated ADC with positive outcomes. Conflict reduction (84.7%), land grabbing prevention (73.7%), and agricultural investment (69.7%) were the most frequently cited consequences. Disaggregated analyses revealed significant differences in mental model content and size across gender, migration status, and literacy. For example, women more frequently linked ADC to empowerment and food security, while men emphasized conflict and agricultural investment.
The findings underscore that tenure security is perceived not just as legal recognition but as a gateway to well-being and stability. These insights call for land reforms that go beyond titling, integrating perception-sensitive approaches and accounting for the diverse cognitive realities of local land users. They offer a participatory way to advance inclusive, responsive, and context-sensitive land governance in customary contexts.
