Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo Supports Government’s Initiative to Safeguard Customary Land
Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo has endorsed the government-led effort to register and issue certificates of ownership for customary land, emphasizing its role in preventing land grabs. The Chief Justice addressed concerns raised by Agago District Chairman Leonard Opio Ojok, assuring that the titles confirm ownership without implying government control
Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo has expressed support for the government’s ongoing effort, led by the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, to register and issue certificates of ownership for customary land. Speaking at a ceremony in Agago District, the Chief Justice lauded the initiative as the only means to safeguard such lands from potential grabbers.
Responding to concerns raised by Agago District Chairman Leonard Opio Ojok, who voiced suspicions that the registration exercise might lead to government land grabs, Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo downplayed fears among customary landowners. He emphasized that the titles being issued did not mean the land belonged to the government but rather confirmed ownership for specific locations.
Opio Ojok had urged the Ministry of Lands to investigate claims that locals were being pressured to register their land in the names of investors, causing apprehension among landowners. He emphasized that addressing the land matter properly was crucial to prevent animosity and potential insecurity in the region.
Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo urged the Lands Minister, Judith Nabakooba, to conduct mass sensitization in communities where the registration exercise is taking place to clarify any misconceptions. He emphasized the importance of becoming an ally to the people and urged the ministry to inventory all land titles in Agago District.
During the ceremony, a total of 1,017 certificates of customary ownership were issued to families and clans in Agago District. The Ministry of Lands aims to register 275,000 customary landowners, including families, clans, and indigenous communities throughout the country before 2026, with support from the European Union and the World Bank.
Minister Nabakooba highlighted that the registration aimed to secure customary ownership rights, prevent land abuse, and protect against illegal land evictions. The Chief Justice emphasized that the certificates should be in the names of the clans owning the land, with a condition preventing investors from using customary land as security for loans.
The ongoing exercise, according to the minister, has contributed to the return of peace and productivity in communities, enabling families and communities to engage in surplus food production for sale.
