WHEREAS, as a result of the bitter struggle waged by the Nations, Nationalities and peoples of Ethiopia, it is confirmed in the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia that the right to ownership of land is exculsively vested in the State and in the People;

WHEREAS, Article 52(2) (d) of the Constitution provides that Regional Governments are empowered to administer land and other natural resources in accordance with Federal laws;

WHEREAS, the implementation of said provision calls for the promulgation of a rural land administration law that is of a general scope and consequent identical application to all Regions;

NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with Article 55 (1) of the Constitution, it is hereby proclaimed as follows.