Basket tenure refers to a form of landholding found in certain traditional agricultural societies, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. It is a communal system where land is owned collectively by a group or village rather than individuals. The term "basket" in this context symbolizes the unity and interdependence of the community, with each member having a stake in the collective management of the land.
Under the basket tenure system, land is divided into plots that are allocated to individual families or households for cultivation. These allocations often occur on a rotating basis, with families receiving a different plot of land each agricultural season. This rotation ensures equitable distribution of fertile and non-fertile lands, allowing each family to have access to productive fields over time.
The tenure system is designed to promote social and economic cohesion within the community, as it fosters cooperation and mutual support among its members. It also helps to prevent inequalities in land distribution, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to cultivate adequate land for their subsistence.
Basket tenure is deeply rooted in the cultural and social fabric of the communities that practice it. It reflects their values of collective stewardship, communal labor, and sharing of resources. The system has often demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of changing socio-economic circumstances.
In contemporary times, basket tenure has faced various challenges due to rapid urbanization, modernization, and the encroachment of individual land ownership systems. However, it still persists in some rural areas where traditional practices remain intact, serving as a reminder of the importance of communal landholding and sustainable resource management.
