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The purpose of the study is to examine the factors and physiognomies that perpetuate unequal allocation and distribution of land between men and women in rural areas. Land is regarded as an instrument towards poverty reduction, increased economic growth and economic development. Gender inequality on allocation of resources such as land continues to manifest not only in African countries but throughout the globe. Moreover, the criteria in which the land is allocated plays a pivotal role in the lives of the people. The resources are still allocated based on the role played by men and women within the society. Although, the post-apartheid South African government formulated laws and policies that aimed to redress the inequalities that still exist in many communities. Cultural roles and beliefs still define how men and women should conduct themselves within the households and communities at large. The study argues that there is a continued limitation of access to and ownership of land by women. Cultural and gender stereotype still influences how land is allocated among men and women. The study concludes that due to culture, men are given the privilege to have access to land and take over their family’s inheritances while women are expected to get married and live with their husband’s family. As a result, women continue to suffer the hardest with limited access to land.

Land distribution is a key factor in income inequality in rural areas of developing countries. This study examines the impact of land tenure security on household income and its distribution in Iringa district, Tanzania, focusing on the Certificate of Customary Right of Occupation (CCRO). Using a quasi-experimental design and Propensity Score Matching, 404 respondents were randomly selected and divided into groups with and without CCROs. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected through surveys and in-depth interviews. Analysis using SPSS/STATA revealed that households with CCROs had higher agricultural yields, sales, and lower production costs. They also invested more in modern farming techniques and soil conservation, leading to higher incomes and reduced income inequality. Despite over 50,000 CCROs issued, credit access remains limited due to a lack of awareness and additional collateral requirements. The study concludes that secure land rights are vital for economic growth and poverty alleviation. Recommendations include increasing awareness about CCROs, facilitating their use as collateral, and exploring barriers to credit access for CCRO holders. Further research is needed to address these challenges.