AMOS KAKURU
Leaders in Rugaraama North Sub-county, Ntungamo District, have encouraged residents to support the government’s ongoing initiative to provide Ugandans with affordable land titles. This program, launched in partnership with the World Bank, aims to secure land ownership and reduce land conflicts across Uganda. Since its start in 2019, the operation has reached various districts, including Ibanda, Mbarara, and regions in the north.
James Karindi Twinamatsiko, a resident of Rugaraama North, expressed his satisfaction with the program. He noted that the initiative aims to confirm land ownership by issuing titles, and he appreciated that the cost is affordable at UGX 805,000, payable after receiving the title.
However, Karindi pointed out that while the majority welcome the program, some individuals are hesitant, fearing that the government might seize their land through the process.
Kenan Tagyemwa, the lead adjudicator of the program responsible for form distribution, field visits, and assessing community engagement, clarified that this government project, managed by the Ministry of Lands, is intended to secure the rights of land users and owners. He emphasized that all interested Ugandans are eligible, with the program primarily targeting small-scale earners who previously couldn’t afford private land title processing. He added that they avoid areas where many titles already exist, as this suggests residents there are financially able to secure titles independently.
Tagyemwa urged interested but unregistered residents to apply soon, as the four-month contract that began in August is set to conclude in November.
Amanya Ivan Rwanyakibare, Chairperson of Rugaraama North LC3, added that applicants are allowed to complete registration forms and pay later, provided their land is dispute-free. He explained that LC1 chairpersons, who are well acquainted with their local areas, have been given authority to verify land claims.
Rwanyakibare also advised LC1 chairpersons to refrain from signing for landowners with disputes or those attempting to secure titles through bribery. He further urged families experiencing domestic conflicts to prioritize this opportunity, ensuring they benefit from the government’s program.
