CUSTOMARY LAW — Land Tenure — Communal Ownership — Presumption Against Individual Ownership

This principle establishes that under customary law, land belongs to the community, village, or family, not to individuals. The principle applies in customary land disputes. It ensures that communal ownership is presumed. The principle reflects the fundamental nature of customary land tenure. It prevents claims of individual ownership without proof. The court must presume communal ownership. The principle provides guidance on the nature of customary land ownership.