news 17 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lands Minister Orders Probe into Alleged Illegal Land Titling in Nakapiripirit
Uganda's Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba has launched an investigation into allegations of fraudulent conversion of nearly 1,500 acres of customary land to freehold in Nakapiripirit District, a move reportedly lacking community consent. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nabakooba-orders-probe-into-1-500-acre-land-dispute--5598342
Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba has ordered a swift investigation into the alleged illegal acquisition of approximately 1,500 acres of customary land in Kawach Sub-county, Nakapiripirit District. The community claims this land was designated for their resettlement after displacement from the former Pian Upe Game Reserve.
Residents are accusing the Nakapiripirit District Council speaker, Richard Lochoto, of wrongfully claiming ownership and obtaining a freehold title without proper consultation. Over 12,000 households are reportedly affected by this dispute, with concerns raised about alleged forgery of local leaders’ signatures during the titling process.
During a visit to the area on September 7, Minister Nabakooba instructed the Resident District Commissioner and the district security committee to conduct a thorough probe and submit their findings within two weeks. She stated that any individuals found to have participated in the fraudulent conversion of customary land to freehold should face arrest. If the investigation confirms fraudulent acquisition, the title will be revoked and the land returned to the community.
Minister Nabakooba also directed Ministry of Lands officials to assist residents in forming a Communal Land Association (CLA) to safeguard their land and manage its use collectively. Documents reviewed suggest the freehold application was processed in late 2021, with claims that the land was vacant. However, community leaders assert the land was occupied and earmarked for agricultural development, crucial for livelihoods following improved security in the Karamoja region.
Area leaders have expressed dismay over the alleged lack of transparency and consultation, questioning how land could be surveyed and approved without their knowledge or signatures. The community is now seeking a fresh survey to determine the precise boundaries and size of the disputed land, with plans to establish a community market for cattle traders.