Residents of Sembabule Town Council have welcomed the government’s issuance of land titles, describing the exercise as a major step towards securing land ownership and reducing disputes.
A total of 43 residents applied for land titles, with 19 already receiving their certificates while the remaining applications are in the final stages of processing.
Only 30% of land in Uganda is registered under the recognized land tenure systems (freehold, mailo, leasehold, and registered customary tenure). The remaining 70% of land in the country remains unregistered, undocumented, and typically held under traditional customary tenure systems.
District officials assured applicants that the outstanding titles will be issued once the verification process is completed.
Beneficiaries said receiving land titles had given them legal proof of ownership and greater confidence in the security of their property.
“We are very happy because we now have proof of ownership. We thank the government for helping us secure our land,” one beneficiary said.
Kiwuula Village Chairperson Kasule Siraje said the issuance of the first batch of land titles marks an important milestone for the community.
Sembabule District Senior Lands Management Officer Emmanuel Kananula commended local leaders for working closely with the district lands office to ensure the exercise was successful.
“Land matters require careful handling because even a small mistake can cause serious disputes. Since I came to Sembabule, no land title had been issued until now. I urge more residents to process their land titles so that they can enjoy secure ownership,” Kananula said.
Resident District Commissioner Jane Francis Kaggayi said the delay in issuing the titles was necessary to allow thorough verification and eliminate errors before the documents were released.
“We took time to verify every application to avoid mistakes. I appreciate Mr Emmanuel Kananula for his professionalism and commitment. Land disputes remain among the most common cases brought to my office, and we have helped many residents resolve them,” Kaggayi said.
District leaders at the event acknowledged that land conflicts remain a major challenge in Sembabule but praised the Resident District Commissioner’s office for its role in resolving disputes and promoting lawful land ownership.
Officials said the issuance of the land titles is expected to strengthen tenure security, reduce land-related conflicts and encourage residents to invest more confidently in their property.
“Nineteen residents have already received their land titles. I encourage those who have not yet applied to follow the required procedures because the opportunity is still available,” Siraje said.
