A high-level consultative meeting on the National Land Policy was held today at Hotel Africana in Kampala, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss critical issues surrounding land ownership and governance in Uganda. The meeting, organized by PELUM Uganda, attracted officials from the Ministry of Lands, national land actors, and other relevant entities.
The discussions centered on several pressing matters, including Land Ownership where Stakeholders raised concerns about the lack of clear definitions and proper documentation of land ownership, leading to conflicts and prolonged legal battles. There was a call to streamline governance policies to ensure that land use and ownership are well-regulated and clearly defined.
Economic Utilization of Land: Participants emphasized the importance of productive land use rather than letting land lie idle while embroiled in legal disputes also highlughiting in the issue of Tenant-Landlord Relations.They say the need for fair and clear landlord-tenant relationships was key especially regarding property rent and the identification of rightful landowners.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Josephine Luyimbazi, the Coordinator of PELUM Uganda, noted that tenants are often willing to pay property rent (busuulu) but are sometimes unable to identify the rightful owners. This challenge, she said, results in disputes and frustrations, particularly when multiple individuals claim ownership of the same piece of land.
“Tenants are usually willing to pay rent, but the problem arises when they are unsure of who the rightful owner is. This confusion creates tension and sometimes leads to violent conflicts,” Mrs. Luyimbazi explained.
James Galabuzi, Chairman of the Landowners Association, voiced his frustration with the endless legal disputes over land, which he said often drag on for over 15 years before resolution. According to him, these prolonged battles waste valuable time that could otherwise be spent productively using the land.
“People should focus on utilizing land productively instead of engaging in unnecessary legal fights. These court cases only waste time and resources,” Galabuzi remarked.
He also criticized government policies that complicate the process of defining land ownership, saying that clear and consistent policies are essential to reducing conflicts and promoting development.
Mrs. Naome Kabanda, the Director of Lands Management at the Ministry of Lands, addressed the significance of busuulu (property rent tax), emphasizing that the government plans to establish a dedicated account specifically for collecting this revenue. This move, she said, aims to enhance accountability and ensure that funds collected are used for the intended purposes.
“The government is committed to creating a dedicated account for collecting busuulu, which will not only enhance transparency but also support the effective utilization of the funds,” Mrs. Kabanda stated.
Stakeholders unanimously agreed on the need for a comprehensive review of Uganda’s land policies to eliminate ambiguities and provide clear guidelines on land ownership and usage. They urged the Ministry of Lands and other relevant authorities to expedite reforms and involve all stakeholders in the decision-making process.
As the country continues to grapple with land conflicts and ownership challenges, it remains crucial to develop policies that promote fairness, transparency, and productive land use. PELUM Uganda vowed to continue advocating for improved land management practices that benefit both landowners and tenants alike.
