Starting April 1, 2026, a new reform in Cameroon's land policy will empower traditional chiefs, specifically those of the third degree, to issue provisional land titles. This policy change is part of an attempt to secure land rights for communities against excessive land acquisitions. Henri Eyebe Ayissi, the Minister of Domains, Cadastre, and Land Affairs, has emphasized that this reform represents a strong prerogative aimed at protecting the vital spaces of populations from abusive land grabs.

The introduction of this decree has been met with a range of reactions from local leaders, particularly among those in the locales where traditional leadership is paramount. Sa Majesté Benjamin Yakana, a chief from the Ombessa village in the Centre region, welcomed the reform, stating that it restores authority to village chiefs and helps safeguard community land rights. The ability to issue provisional titles is seen by many as a necessary step towards increasing local autonomy concerning land management and reducing disputes over land ownership.

However, this reform also raises questions about the potential for misuse or conflicts arising from the newly granted powers. Critics are concerned about the implications for land governance and are calling for clear guidelines to ensure that the issuance of provisional titles does not lead to further complications in land tenure security. The debates are expected to intensify as the implementation date approaches, thus highlighting the need for comprehensive dialogue and training for chiefs in navigating their new responsibilities.