In a strategic move aimed at strengthening legislators’ understanding on land issues,Members of Uganda’s 12th Parliament are set to participate in a high-level orientation on land governance starting on 17th July 2026 at the Parliament.
The orientation, organised by the Uganda Parliamentarians Land Management Forum (UPLMF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, will bring together Members of Parliament, government officials, development partners, technical experts and civil society organisations to discuss emerging land governance challenges and the role of Parliament in promoting equitable, transparent and sustainable land management. Land remains a critical national asset that underpins agriculture, investment, infrastructure development, environmental conservation and social stability.
Charles Opolot, Advocacy and Partnership Manager with the forum says the orientation is expected to equip legislators with practical knowledge on Uganda’s land laws, the National Land Policy, customary and statutory land tenure systems, land administration institutions, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Special attention will also be given to gender-responsive land governance, dispute resolution mechanisms, and the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, including women and youth, in accessing and owning land.
“Participants will engage with experts from government, academia, development partners and civil society, providing an opportunity to exchange experiences and identify policy interventions that can strengthen land governance across the country,”he stated.
According to Opolot, the orientation comes at an important time as the new Parliament begins its legislative work. It is expected to prepare Members of Parliament to effectively debate land-related legislation, scrutinise government programmes, monitor implementation of land policies and respond to constituents’ concerns on land matters.
He noted that well-informed legislators will contribute significantly to reducing land-related disputes, promoting responsible land administration and advancing inclusive national development.
Opolot told this website that the orientation has attracted support from development partners such as Oxfam, Pelum Uganda, Cordaid and Zoaamong others who committed to improving land governance and strengthening parliamentary engagement on land issues. It also reflects growing recognition that effective land governance is central to achieving sustainable development, food security, environmental protection and economic growth.
The Uganda Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development is currently executing its Strategic Plan IV (FY 2025/26–2029/30) to improve land administration, promote orderly urban development, and facilitate access to affordable housing
The ministry is introducing a new law, expected via the Real Estate Bill, to regulate land and property brokers in order to curb fraud and land conflicts
Backed by a proposed parliamentary allocation, the ministry is undertaking a national land inventory starting with priority cities and municipalities to map and title government land.
According to Police Crime Report 2025,Land fraud and disputes in Uganda remain a critical issue, with the Uganda Police Force Annual Crime Report recording a staggering 663 land fraud cases in a recent year, highlighting a significant 67% increase in documented offenses
As Uganda continues to experience increasing pressure on land arising from population growth, urbanisation and commercial investment, stakeholders hope that the orientation will strengthen Parliament’s capacity to champion policies that promote justice, transparency and equitable access to land for all Ugandans
