Clan By-Laws Exacerbate Land Disputes in Bugisu Region

Clan by-laws in several rural districts within the Bugisu Sub-region are reportedly creating significant obstacles in resolving land disputes. These customary laws are preventing local leaders from effectively mediating conflicts, forcing residents to seek recourse through more formal and often protracted channels.

Local leaders, such as Mr. Steven Masete, Chairperson of Makenya Sub-county in Manafwa District, have expressed frustration. He stated that while many land issues could be settled with simple community policing, clan by-laws effectively bar local authorities from intervening. This often leads to cases being sent to higher authorities, causing delays and added stress for those involved.

Furthermore, Mr. Masete highlighted instances where clans allegedly seize property, including land, from orphans and widows after the head of the household passes away. He emphasized the need for continued sensitization meetings to inform communities about their rights and existing laws, as a lack of awareness often leaves individuals vulnerable to exploitation. The presence of individuals demanding payment for assistance further complicates matters for victims.

Women’s participation in land matters is also a concern. Ms. Justine Makayi, a local leader in Bubutu, noted that women are frequently excluded from decision-making processes regarding land. In many cases, men collude with local administrative offices to conduct land demarcations and allocations without the consent of women, even those in leadership positions. This lack of inclusion often forces women to seek external intervention, such as involving the police or courts, for issues that could have been resolved amicably.

Despite these challenges, some disputes are being resolved with the help of local leaders and police. In one case in Makenya Sub-county, Manafwa District, police and community leaders successfully mediated a land boundary dispute involving a widow who had returned home to find her land encroached upon. However, the underlying issue of clan by-laws and lack of information access persists across districts like Manafwa, Namisindwa, Bududa, Sironko, and Bulambuli, where land conflicts remain prevalent.

For information on land matters in Bugisu, please refer to the Daily Monitor.