Private Trusts
What is a Private Trust?
A private trust is a legal arrangement where family land is transferred to trustees to hold and manage for the benefit of named family members (beneficiaries), according to rules set out in a trust deed.
Why is this important ?
1. Prevents land fragmentation
Without a trust, land often gets:
Subdivided across generations
Sold off to settle disputes
Lost due to unclear inheritance
A trust keeps the land intact.
2. Avoids inheritance conflicts
The trust deed:
Replaces vague verbal promises
Reduces court battles among heirs
Provides clear authority for decision-making
This alone saves families years of stress.
3. Protects land from personal risks
Because individuals don’t own the land directly:
Creditors can’t easily seize it
Divorce or bankruptcy has less impact
Poor decisions by one heir don’t endanger everyone
4. Enables long-term land stewardship
A private trust supports:
Sustainable farming or conservation
Cultural or ancestral land preservation
Strategic development over decades
It shifts thinking from “my land” to “our legacy.”
5. Smooth inter-generational transition
Trusts:
Avoid probate delays
Automatically adapt to births and deaths
Allow elders to guide land use even after they’re gone