By WASITA ROYAL
In a clear move to secure long-term financial independence, the Gazelle District Development Authority (GDDA) has formally taken ownership of two major plantations, marking the successful end of a visionary six-year development strategy strongly supported by local leaders.
The presentation of the land titles for the 907.8-hectare Notremal and Langinoa plantations last week was more than a land deal; it is seen as a fundamental shift in how the district plans to fund its own future. Under the leadership of the Gazelle MP and GDDA Chairman, Jelta Wong, the authority has changed from a buyer to the proud owner of prime real assets, purchased from Agmark Group of Companies for K1.8 million.
“This is not just about acquiring land; it is about acquiring the capacity to build our own destiny,” said MP Wong during the title handover. “The decision made by the GDDA in 2019 was a clear commitment to move beyond dependency and create a sustainable economic engine for our people.”
The strategic vision behind the acquisition is clearly geared towards internal revenue generation. By bringing these major plantations under district control, the GDDA and its eight Local Level Governments (LLGs) now possess a physical asset base to fund infrastructure, health, and education projects for years to come.
District Chief Executive Officer Hubert Wangun stressed the long-term thinking behind the move. “This is a textbook example of strategic socio-economic planning. We have invested in a real asset that will work for the district forever, ensuring stability and self-reliance for future administrations,” Wangun stated.
The process, carefully carried out, saw the final sale contract signed in January 2024 and the last payment of K440,000 paid by the GDDA. The legal transfer was officially registered with the Deputy Registrar of Titles on June 6, 2025.
District Lands Officer Kaspar Woa, who presented the four official titles to Chairman Wong, stressed the solid legal foundation of the acquisition. “The portions are securely held under State Lease, providing the district with complete certainty as we move into the management and development phase,” Woa explained.
The highly significant handover was witnessed by the full GDDA board and all eight LLG Presidents, representing a united district leadership committed to a shared vision of economic self-sufficiency.
“The work begins now,” concluded MP Wong. “Our focus shifts to responsibly developing these plantations to maximise their benefit for every community in Gazelle. This is a legacy investment, and we are determined to make it count.”