For years, gender-based violence has been at the center of discussions around refugee welfare. Yet, another crisis is quietly unfolding in Uganda’s refugee settlements: land conflict. With over 80,000 refugees living in these communities, the struggle for land access and use is becoming a pressing issue that threatens both livelihoods and peaceful coexistence.
Refugees and Land Allocation
Upon arrival, refugees are allocated small plots of land—typically 30 by 30 meters—for resettlement. While this provides a starting point, many families find it insufficient to sustain their needs. New arrivals often struggle to understand plot boundaries, leading to disputes with host communities. In some cases, refugees cultivate crops outside their designated plots, sparking tensions when harvest time arrives.
These disputes are not isolated. They reflect a broader challenge: the scarcity of land and the lack of clear, enforceable agreements between refugees and host communities.
Renting Land: A Risky Investment
Some refugees attempt to overcome these limitations by renting land. However, this solution comes with its own risks. One refugee shared his dilemma of investing millions of shillings into rented land, only to face eviction threats. Policies to protect refugees who rely on hired land remain unclear, leaving families vulnerable despite their efforts to build sustainable livelihoods.
Women’s Struggles with Land Rights
Women, in particular, face unique challenges. While they may build homes on allocated plots, restrictions prevent them from cutting trees, as ownership remains with landlords. The small size of plots also limits agricultural diversity, forcing families to seek land outside the settlement. These constraints deepen economic insecurity and perpetuate dependence on fragile agreements.
The Need for Formal Agreements
Currently, many land arrangements are verbal, lacking documentation or witnesses. WORUDET and partner organizations are working to formalize these agreements, ensuring accountability and reducing conflict. Long-term solutions, however, require stronger institutional support. Stakeholders argue that UNHCR and government partners should secure dedicated plots for refugees, enabling sustainable cultivation and reducing reliance on precarious rentals.
A Call to Action
Land actors emphasize that government and refugee partners must do more than temporary fixes. Clear policies, community dialogue, and equitable land access are essential to prevent escalating conflicts. Without these measures, land disputes will continue to undermine refugee livelihoods and strain relations with host communities.
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