Regulation 3 of the Lands and Deeds Registry Regulations (Regulation 3), plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of land administration in Zambia. This regulation outlines the requirements for registering documents related to land, and it’s essential for individuals and legal practitioners to understand its provisions.

In terms of regulation 3, only persons interested in the documents or legal practitioners can present documents for registration. Documents relating to land, other than a state grant, cannot be registered by the Registrar of Lands and Deeds unless presented by an authorized party. Persons interested in the documents refer to parties to the documents submitted for registration. The Regulation ensures that only authorized individuals can register land documents, thereby reducing fraud and errors. Furthermore, it protects the interests of parties involved in land transactions and helps maintain the accuracy and reliability of land records. By understanding and complying with Regulation 3, individuals and legal practitioners can contribute to efficient and effective land administration in Zambia.

In this vein, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (the “Ministry”) recently called on members of the public to comply with the laws governing land administration in Zambia. This follows the introduction of the Zambia Integrated Land Administration System (ZILAS) in May 2023, which replaced the Zambia Integrated Land Management Information System (ZILMIS).

While the new system has improved service delivery and reduced opportunities for corruption, the Ministry has noted an increase in applications for services by individuals who are not lawyers or interested parties in the documents. This has resulted in the submission of substandard documents, fraud, and errors that negatively impact service delivery.

The Ministry reminds the public that according to Regulation 3, only persons interested in the documents or legal practitioners can present documents for registration. The Ministry urges members of the public to comply with the law to ensure effective and efficient service delivery.

For more information, contact us at info@mbplegal.co.zm.