Apaa Land Inquiry Stalled by Funding, Government Promises Action

A government commission established to address the protracted and violent land dispute in Apaa has been hampered by insufficient funding. State Minister for Northern Uganda Rehabilitation, Dr. Kenneth Omona, announced that funds will be allocated in the new financial year to enable the commission to thoroughly investigate the issues fueling the conflict.

The commission, headed by former Chief Justice Bart Katurebe and comprising five members, was set up by President Museveni to find a lasting solution to the Apaa land question. Dr. Omona acknowledged that while the COVID-19 pandemic also caused some delays, the primary obstacle has been financial.

Apaa, a 42-square-kilometer territory situated between Amuru and Adjumani districts, has been a flashpoint for ethnic clashes between the Acholi and Madi people, both claiming it as ancestral land. The conflict, which erupted following evictions in 2011, has resulted in numerous deaths, property destruction, and the closure of essential services.

While the government’s immediate focus is on restoring peace and security, Dr. Omona urged residents to desist from violence and concentrate on agricultural development and economic stability. The land is also claimed by the National Forestry Authority and Uganda Wildlife Authority as a gazetted reserve.

Past attempts to resolve the dispute, including parliamentary inquiries and presidential task forces, have failed to bring lasting peace. Some residents have proposed granting Apaa district status as a potential solution to end the ongoing bloodshed.

Source: https://www.monitor.ug/uganda/news/national/why-the-inquiry-on-apaa-land-stalled-5453550