Economists call for proper land management systems

Economists and land rights activists in Uganda have raised an alarm over the urgent need to strengthen the capacity of enforcement institutions to ensure proper land management systems.

This enhancement, they argue, is crucial not only for economic development but also for safeguarding the land rights of women, who are often vulnerable to abuse and discrimination in land matters.

Dr. Fred Muhumuza, a senior economist, underscores the necessity of increasing the budget for land management systems within the judiciary and other critical sectors.

He emphasizes that adequate funding is essential for handling the complexities of land affairs effectively.

"By supporting cultural reviews within kingdoms, we can also address the cultural practices that contribute to land-related conflicts," says Dr. Muhumuza, suggesting a holistic approach to the issue.

The recently approved budget for financial year 2024/25 has allocated shs260 billion to the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, marking a significant increase from the previous fiscal year's shs 165 billion.

Despite this increase, concerns remain that the budget still falls short in addressing the broader challenges of land governance.

The need for additional resources to protect women's land rights and promote effective land management remains pressing.

Government's commitment to funding initiatives like irrigation, food security, and climate change mitigation through the allocation of shs2.2 trillion is a step in the right direction.

However, the focus should also extend to ensuring that women, who play a crucial role in agriculture and food security, have secure access to land.

Robust  advocacy for better budget allocations and reforms in cultural practices are essential for improving land management and protecting women's rights in Uganda.

As the country moves forward, it is crucial to prioritize these areas to achieve sustainable development and gender equality in land governance.