The Ugandan government, led by Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba, has initiated the distribution of free certificates of customary ownership in the Acholi sub-region in a move aimed at protecting residents against evictions and enhancing their livelihoods. The exercise, officiated by Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, commenced on January 4 in Agago district, marking the beginning of a process that will extend to other districts in the region.
During the inaugural event at Kalongo grounds in Kalongo Town Council, over 1,000 families and clans in Agago received free certificates serving as land titles. Minister Nabakooba emphasized the importance of documentation and titling for family, individual, and communal land to foster peace in the region. The aim is to enable families and communities to engage in agricultural activities confidently, knowing that their land is protected.
Nabakooba reported that, thus far, the ministry has processed 10,017 customary titles for 6,282 individuals in Paimol and Wol sub-counties. The certificates were distributed with a male dominance of 57%, while females accounted for 43%. The minister highlighted that this process is crucial for creating stability and facilitating the production of surplus food for sale.
The lands ministry, under the Development Initiative for Northern Uganda (DINU) Land component, supported by the European Union and the United Nations Capital Development Fund, aims to process more customary land certificates. Minister Nabakooba expressed the target of registering 275,000 customary landowners throughout the country before 2026.
Initially piloted in three districts—Agago, Pakwach, and Maracha—the exercise has now expanded, with the government committed to registering clans and their land. The minister acknowledged the local leaders for mobilizing communities and emphasized the role of the newly constructed land registries in Paimol and Wol.
Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo praised the land registration initiative, highlighting its potential to curb land grabbing and disputes in the region. He emphasized the opportunity it presents for locals to save costs related to licenses on their land. However, he urged the lands minister to engage district leaders in sensitizing the communities about development and the importance of partnering with investors for community growth.
Responding to concerns raised by Agago LC5 chairperson Leonard Ojok about potential forgery of land documents, the Chief Justice urged the government to conduct follow-ups to ensure the protection of landowners. Ojok emphasized the importance of addressing the issue to prevent anger and insecurity among the locals.
Residents like George Otto, representing the Kaluke Katugu family, expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts. Otto noted that, despite facing delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the process cost them only sh15,000, enabling them to gain full ownership of their land.
