Women in Kabarole Secure Land for Farming and Food Security

Residents of Kabarole, specifically in Busoro Town Council and surrounding areas, have received certificates of customary ownership for their land. The certificates were issued by Cordaid International, a non-governmental organisation, in an effort to secure land for farming and food security. The exercise, which is part of a five-year project that began in 2024, aims to promote productive use of land and prevent disputes.

The District Women Councillor, Grace Ahumuza, has encouraged the beneficiaries to use their certificates wisely, highlighting that secured land carries added value and commands a higher price than ordinary land. She noted that women can now use their certificates as surety to access loans for development, which will enable them to practice permanent agriculture and strengthen food security. Ahumuza also emphasised the importance of respecting boundaries shown on the certificates.

The Kabarole Lands Officer, Peter Alinda, said the certificates will simplify land succession and development projects such as road construction. He described the process as part of the solution to the district's long-standing land disputes, adding that beneficiaries should keep their certificates safely. Alinda's sentiments were echoed by Martin Ojara, Cordaid's lead project verifier in the Rwenzori region.

According to Martin Ojara, the five-year project has reached its midpoint and is yielding positive results due to donor interests. He commended district leaders for their cooperation in making an impact for ordinary citizens. The project's success is attributed to the collaboration between Cordaid and local leaders.

The certificates of customary ownership were issued at Busoro Town Council offices, marking a significant milestone in the effort to secure land for women in Kabarole. The beneficiaries were cautioned against selling their land, but rather using it productively for farming and food security. This initiative aims to promote sustainable agriculture and improve livelihoods.

The project has also highlighted the importance of respecting boundaries and avoiding encroachment on wetlands, swamps, or roads. Beneficiaries were advised to adhere to the boundaries shown on their certificates to avoid disputes. This is crucial in ensuring that the land is used productively and sustainably.

The initiative has been welcomed by local leaders, who see it as a solution to land disputes and a way to promote food security. The project's success will be monitored, and its impact on the community will be evaluated. Key outcomes include increased access to loans, improved agricultural productivity, and reduced land disputes.

Key points

• Women in Kabarole receive land certificates for farming and food security.
• The certificates aim to promote productive use of land and prevent disputes.
• The project has reached its midpoint and is yielding positive results due to donor interests.