Urban land management under rapid urbanization: Exploring the link between urban land policies and urban land use efficiency in Ethiopia

Ethiopia's rapid urbanization over the past two decades has led to the conversion of agricultural land to urban use. However, this expansion has been largely unplanned, resulting in numerous urban land management challenges. These gaps have hindered efficient urban land use, a critical component of sustainable urban development. This study examines the impact of current institutional environment on urban land use efficiency (ULUE) in Ethiopia and explores why urban land policies have not been translated into effective land management and sustainable practices. Using a case study approach and qualitative method, the research identifies institutional factors that influence ULUE, drawing on the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework and the Institutional Credibility thesis. The study identifies several factors that contribute to low ULUE, including an inefficient land transfer market, tenure insecurity and land hoarding. These problems are exacerbated by gaps in policy formulation and implementation, including inadequate human and technical capacity, unrealistic spatial planning, and weak urban land governance. To improve ULUE, an effective land transfer market, tenure security and land policies that discourage land hoarding are essential. Addressing shortcomings in the legal framework and strengthening urban land governance and institutional capacity are key steps.