Border Dispute Flares Between Yumbe and Obongi Districts Over Road and Sanitation Projects

What began as a hopeful development initiative in the Kali village area has unfortunately resurfaced a deep-seated border dispute between the Yumbe and Obongi districts. Residents, who had previously coexisted peacefully despite unclear administrative lines, now find themselves caught in a renewed conflict triggered by the opening of community access roads and the construction of VIP latrines.

The Obongi Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Hashaka Mpimbaza, stated that the insecurity commenced with the Obongi District’s road project, a roughly 7km stretch from Kali to River Kochi. The dispute intensified as both districts laid claim to the land where the road and sanitation facilities are being implemented, prompting a joint security meeting.

This isn’t the first instance of such a conflict; a similar incident occurred during the 2024 census. The RDC emphasized that border demarcation is the responsibility of the Ministry of Lands and called for an urgent resolution to the persistent confusion. While the Obongi side advocated for the road project to continue, citing its community benefit, Yumbe district leaders rejected this, demanding clarity on funding and questioning the legality of the works.

Yumbe’s District Speaker, Mr. Samadu Aguku, noted that ongoing works must be suspended to avoid escalating tensions and potential misunderstandings about district sovereignty. He also raised concerns about alleged threats against Yumbe’s local council officials.

Community members expressed fear and accused Obongi authorities of using security personnel to intimidate residents and assert control over disputed territory. Mr. Ibrahim Atiku Dalilu recounted forceful attempts during the census, while Mr. Sunday Bran, a landowner, alleged that the sanitation project was a ploy to reclaim land without proper consultation.

Obongi County MP, Mr. Hassan Kaps Fungaroo, strongly asserts that Kali is within Obongi and historical maps support his claim. He suggests that the current unrest stems from a desire to redraw established boundaries. The Obongi District Chairperson, Mr. Khemis Abibu Buga, lamented that previous attempts to enlist the Ministry of Lands have been unfruitful.

Following the security meeting, it was resolved to suspend the ongoing project works for two weeks. A joint team from both districts will meet with relevant ministries to seek a lasting solution for the protracted border issue.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda) https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-road-sanitation-projects-triggered-border-conflicts-between-yumbe-and-obongi-districts-5501018