Robert - Ojambo

This study explores the land question in the sociopolitical conflicts in the former districts of Bukedi and Bugisu in Eastern Uganda, particularly the relationship between the colonial and postcolonial land policies. It also examines how the social and economic development within the societies of Bukedi and Bugisu, areas that did not fall within the old centralised kingdoms, over the period of study have impinged on both land-policy making and land-related sociopolitical conflicts. Using a qualitative methodology,the study establishes that policies affecting land-based livelihood activities have led to a number of sociopolitical conflicts in the area.

This study investigates the land question in socio-political conflicts in Eastern Uganda. Using a qualitative approach; with help of archival records, oral interviews and other written documents, the study shows that: the land question in Eastern Uganda had its origins in the diverse local land tenure regimes of the pre-colonial societies; it also shows that colonial land policies escalated the land question, which in turn led to socio-political conflict between individuals, families and communities in Eastern Uganda especially in Bukedi, Bugisu and Teso; people’s perceptions of the land policies put in place the post-colonial period evoked emotional responses and political actions, which raised questions over land ownership, distribution, use as well as resource management and ultimately, identity and citizen rights. Therefore, the study concludes that patterns of socio-political conflicts in Eastern Uganda are closely linked to long standing issues of concerning ownership and access of land. It also discounts the Neo-liberal view which has been emphasising individualisation of land tenure as a panacea to land conflicts in Africa, as it only worsens the situation.