Land tenure systems on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania from 1920–1950s influenced socio-cultural and economic aspects. Two main systems, kihamba and shamba, shaped land use and agricultural practices. Kihamba, older than shamba, had deeper roots in the area. The way land was used reflected the different tenure types and cultural beliefs. The physical landscape, economic needs, and social factors all played a role in how land was utilized. The highlands and lowlands served distinct yet interconnected purposes for the local people. The study used archival sources, interviews, and secondary materials to show how settlement patterns and agriculture on Mt. Kilimanjaro were shaped by a mix of factors.