Many pastoralists in Karamoja have lost their rights to land due to the lack of formal land registration. For generations, communities have accessed and used land communally, but without legal documentation, their claims remain vulnerable. As pressure on land resources increases, the risk of displacement and land-related conflict grows.
To address this challenge, the Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development and its partners is supporting the formation of Community Land Associations (CLAs). These associations play a critical role in helping communities register their land collectively and obtain Certificates of Communal Ownership (CCOs) – official documents that recognize communal land rights under Ugandan law.
However, many clans and community members still lack awareness and information on the legal procedures involved in land registration and acquisition of CCOs. This knowledge gap limits their ability to take advantage of available legal frameworks designed to protect their land.
In response, COPACSO team, working in collaboration with the District Natural Resources Office, is leading efforts to build awareness and understanding among community members. Through dialogue sessions, training and technical support, we are helping clans navigate the land registration process and make informed decisions.
Additionally, COPACSO is actively engaging with local communities and traditional leaders. Our work focuses on guiding and supporting clans to establish CLAs and pursue legal ownership of their communal lands.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen land governance, reduce conflict and promote sustainable development in Uganda’s cattle corridor. Through various interventions including helping communities in Karamoja secure legal documentation for their land, we are not only protecting livelihoods – we are laying the groundwork for peace, equity and resilience.
