Leaders in Bunyoro Region Welcome Decline in Land Conflicts

The exploration and development of oil resources in the Bunyoro region began in 2016.

HOIMA, UGANDA – Leaders across the Bunyoro sub-region have expressed appreciation for a noticeable decrease in land-related conflicts within their areas.

This positive development comes after the commencement of oil extraction in the Bunyoro region starting in 2016, a period that was initially marred by incidents of land grabbing and the unlawful eviction of people without due process.

Local government leaders from districts such as Hoima, Kikuube, and Bulisa have reported receiving fewer complaints, thanks to interventions against wealthy individuals who were seizing land from locals without following the law.

Our reporter spoke with several leaders who explained the strategies behind this success in reducing land conflicts.

Uthman Mugisha Mubaraka, the LC5 Chairperson of Hoima District, commented on the efforts made to address the issue.
 

Godwin Angaliya, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kikuube, also provided insights. He stated that security organs have been deployed to combat land grabbing, but they often encounter significant resistance and influence from the perpetrators.
(Audio clip of Godwin Angaliya, RDC Kikuube)

Adding a cultural perspective, Fred Mugenyi Ruchunya, a chief prince in the Bunyoro Kingdom, emphasized that the kingdom has always been committed to providing land to its people, and land grabbing remains a serious concern.
 

The exploration and development of oil resources in the Bunyoro region began in 2016.