Uganda Govt Halts Leasehold to Freehold Conversions on State Land to Protect Assets

The Ugandan government, through the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, plans to block the conversion of state land from leasehold to freehold. Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba emphasized that freehold titles make land irreclaimable, stating, “If someone gets a freehold title, then it becomes their land. We cannot reclaim it.”

This move follows alerts from Uganda Land Commission (ULC) chairperson Prof. Nyeko Pen-Mogi, who noted significant losses of government land, particularly through applications from top officials. The minister advocates for strict guidelines ensuring government land remains leasehold, allowing directed use without permanent transfer.

To enhance land tenure security, the government is pursuing funds to compensate absentee landlords, especially Mailo owners. Nabakooba highlighted the need to pay for land rather than convert it for free, referencing President Museveni’s directive to value such lands. ULC reports budget shortfalls, seeking Shs529.82 billion to clear payments after disbursing Shs219.82 billion under their strategic plan.

ULC has surveyed 150,886.49 hectares across regions like Buganda, Bunyoro, and others, clearing 27,876 hectares. Buganda holds the largest outstanding balance at Shs313 billion. The commission has issued over 20,000 titles to lawful occupants and subdivided 27,781 parcels, with more projects underway, including 513 titles for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline.

Prof. Nyeko urged acquiring land for new cities and canceling recent freehold conversions back to leasehold to counter shortages for investors.

Source: Daily Monitor