How does land tenure security contribute to the sustainable development of rural households? Evidence from Benin (West Africa)

In rural economies where land is a critical asset, tenure security plays a pivotal role in sustainable development. While previous research emphasized the economic impacts of secure land rights, their broader social and environmental contributions remain underexplored. This study investigates how land tenure security affects economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development in rural Benin. Using a mixed-methods approach—household surveys (n = 372), focus group discussions, and key informant interviews—and structural equation modeling, the analysis reveals that secure land rights significantly enhance investment, credit access, social cohesion, gender equality, and sustainable land practices such as agroforestry. Stronger legal rights (land titles and ADC/CFR certificates) yield more substantial benefits compared to land use certificates or no documentation. The findings highlight land governance as a cross-cutting driver of SDGs 1, 2, 5, 13, and 15. The study recommends inclusive, gender-sensitive, and context-adapted land policies to foster rural sustainability and resilience.