Uganda's Fight to Reclaim Public Land: A Test of Integrity

The Ugandan government’s plan to create a comprehensive inventory of public land and revoke illegally obtained titles marks a crucial moment in safeguarding national assets. This exercise is designed to identify, document, and secure government-owned land across the country, aiming to combat widespread fraud, encroachment, and disputes.

Poorly documented public land has historically been vulnerable to exploitation by speculators and politically connected individuals. The ongoing efforts to cancel dozens of freehold titles within Mabira Forest and other forest reserves in Mukono highlight the severity of this issue, with significant degradation already occurring in areas like Mabira.

However, the cancellation of these titles must extend beyond mere headline-grabbing announcements. Uganda has a history of launching campaigns against encroachment on wetlands and forests, only to see illegal developments resurface. The true challenge lies in consistent enforcement and accountability.

It is particularly concerning when construction continues on land under caveat, with allegations of physical planners approving building plans despite existing disputes. This indicates a deeper institutional problem where different government bodies work at cross-purposes, hindering effective protection of public land.

The proposed inventory requires transparency, public accessibility, and independent auditing. Citizens need a clear understanding of what public land exists, its location, its intended use, and the actions taken against illegal occupants. Crucially, this process must avoid selective evictions or political favoritism, ensuring all cancellations adhere to the law and provide legitimate claimants with recourse.

Possession of a title should not serve as an unbreakable shield for illegality if the title was obtained fraudulently or pertains to land unavailable for private ownership. Public land, including forests, wetlands, and road reserves, serves all generations and should be managed for the collective good, not just for the benefit of current investors or officials.

The government has initiated a vital first step. Now, it must demonstrate that this is not just another temporary campaign but a sustained effort to establish a land administration system that identifies, protects, and manages public land for the benefit of all Ugandans. The success of this initiative will be a true measure of the nation’s commitment to its public resources.

Read more at Daily Monitor: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/end-theft-of-public-land-5568642