UGANDA, Kyankwanzi | Real Muloodi News | The Ministry of Lands and Urban Development has issued a directive prohibiting surveyors from conducting boundary openings on disputed pieces of land across Uganda.
Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba, during a visit to Kyankwanzi on Tuesday 20th February, 2024, emphasised that the practice of surveyors opening boundaries on disputed land has led to numerous conflicts, particularly in rural areas.
District leaders welcomed the directive, accusing surveyors and land grabbers of exacerbating land disputes by colluding with individuals connected to officials in the land registry.
Minister Nabakooba emphasised the importance of preventing surveyors from opening boundaries on disputed land, as such actions can escalate conflicts and adversely affect communities.
She highlighted concerns that some surveyors may be working in collusion with influential individuals to exploit land disputes for personal gain.
While acknowledging the role of surveyors in land management, she stressed the need for them to prioritise conflict resolution and adhere to legal guidelines.
Alozius Gonza, president of the Institution of Surveyors of Uganda (ISU), defended the profession, stating that surveyors aim to provide solutions rather than exacerbate conflicts.
He emphasised the importance of surveyors engaging with all stakeholders, including family members, to resolve disputes before conducting any surveying activities.
However, he acknowledged that some surveyors may engage in unethical practices, such as accepting land as payment for their services, which can contribute to conflicts.
Minister Nabakooba cautioned against evicting Bibanja holders without following the presidential directive issued in 2022 regarding evictions.
She urged landlords to adhere to legal procedures and compensate bona fide occupants before undertaking any eviction activities.
The minister highlighted the prevalence of conflicts arising from the Mailo Land system, particularly when landlords attempt to evict tenants without due process.
The current Surveyors Act of 1934 governs the activities of surveyors, allowing them to conduct surveys without necessarily assessing the presence of conflicts on the land.
Minister Nabakooba expressed concern that some surveyors disregard existing laws and engage in practices that exacerbate conflicts, such as sharing portions of the land they survey.
She cited Section 333 A (1) of the Succession Act, which prohibits individuals from sharing land as compensation for services rendered.
Local leaders were urged to play a proactive role in preventing land disputes by prohibiting surveyors from conducting activities on disputed land until all stakeholders are present.
Minister Nabakooba emphasised the importance of community involvement and conflict resolution in addressing land-related conflicts effectively.
During a meeting attended by district chairpersons, councillors, and sub-county leaders, concerns were raised about the challenges posed by the Mailo Land system and the need for effective dispute-resolution mechanisms.
The minister underscored the importance of legal education and awareness-raising initiatives to empower residents to protect their land rights.
Charles Balala, representing the Office of the Administrator General, reiterated the importance of local leaders’ involvement in property division processes.
He emphasised the legal procedures governing the division of inherited estates and cautioned against fraudulent practices that could lead to land disputes.
Balala highlighted the role of the courts in administering estates and issuing grants to beneficiaries based on legal criteria.
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