Masindi District security officials have initiated measures to enhance security and legal clearance for individuals leasing land for agricultural purposes. The directive mandates all external farmers to register promptly with village chairpersons to undergo security verification and legal clearance before engaging in agricultural activities within the district.
The move comes in response to concerns raised by local leaders about the increasing number of laborers, including those from other districts, seeking land without undergoing the necessary security checks through local council registration. This trend raises potential security threats, especially when unregistered individuals operate on contested land.
Mr. Bwoohe Manisur, the chairperson of Kijunjubwa Sub-county, expressed worry over the situation, citing instances where 15 families have occupied 36 acres of disputed land in the area without proper registration. He emphasized that the lack of registration not only poses a security threat but also contributes to the escalation of conflicts in the region.
In response to these concerns, the sub-county leadership, guided by the district security committee, has set a deadline of February 15 for unknown families in the area to register. Failure to comply with the registration process may result in further complications in the ongoing land conflict.
One affected individual, Mr. Simon Peter Sasu from Kibuku District, admitted to hiring conflicted land without undergoing the local council registration process. He stated that a broker assured him that all formalities were settled upon paying a fee of Shs1.5 million for leasing the land, unaware that the land was embroiled in a dispute.
Mr. Ronald Ochand, the officer in charge of Kijunjubwa Police Post, emphasized the importance of registering casual workers and individuals seeking land for farming. This registration process aims to streamline security efforts and verify the legal status of individuals involved in agricultural activities.
Mr. Emmy Ngabirano, the Masindi Resident District Commissioner, highlighted the potential security threats posed by unregistered individuals seeking casual work and land for farming. He urged individuals to follow proper channels by registering with local councils, ensuring a smoother process for both laborers and authorities. Mr. Ngabirano emphasized that ensuring safety and the legality of land usage is crucial for those engaged in agriculture.
