The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development (MLHUD), has issued 410 free Certificates of Occupancy (COOs) to residents of Gomba District. The initiative, supported by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the European Union (EU), aims to formalize land ownership and reduce conflicts between tenants and landlords.
The certificates were distributed on March 6, 2025 at Gomba County headquarters, covering land on Block 198 and 223, Plot 5 and 1, respectively.
Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba, while handing over the documents, emphasized their significance in securing tenants’ rights and promoting economic empowerment. She urged beneficiaries to use the land productively and leverage government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).
“This is a legal document instituted in the Land Act of 1998. You are now free to use the land as you wish, but I encourage you to engage in commercial agriculture,” Nabakooba said.
Nabakooba noted that the initiative, which has been successfully implemented in six districts, including Mityana, Mubende, Kassanda, and Gomba, should be expanded across the central region.
“We ask our dear donors to extend the program to cover all districts with private Mailo land,” she said, adding that the project will phase out in December 2025.
To qualify for a Certificate of Occupancy, a tenant must be a lawful occupant, possess relevant documentation, and have cleared all ground rent payments. The initiative has helped unveil absentee landlords and reduce land encumbrances.
The European Union delegate, Sanne Willems, who leads the Green Transition and Private Sector team, noted that the program has significantly reduced land conflicts and boosted economic activity.
“This initiative has a direct impact on agriculture, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Since 2021, 69 certificates were issued, and now with 410 more, the demand remains high,” Sanne said.
She revealed that at least 200 beneficiaries have used their COOs to secure bank loans, urging the government to sustain the program.
“We appeal to the Ugandan government to continue supporting this initiative, and we remain committed to providing assistance where needed.”
The Deputy Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Kampala, Mr Philippe Roussel, underscored the program’s role in poverty reduction.
“This is yet another testament to the cooperation between Uganda, Germany, and the EU in supporting people to move out of poverty and hunger while securing land ownership,” he stated.
Despite its successes, Minister Nabakooba decried attempts by opposition politicians to sabotage the initiative.
“Some self-seekers are spreading falsehoods to discourage communities from embracing this program. Please disregard malicious claims and focus on opportunities that will uplift you from poverty,” she urged, citing disruptions in Butambala.
Nusurah Nakanjako, a resident of Gomba, expressed gratitude for the program, vowing to use her land productively.
“This process is costly, but the government and its partners have provided it for free. I appreciate the NRM government for this,” she said.
Annet Nakyanzi credited President Museveni for appointing a dedicated minister who ensures ordinary Ugandans benefit from such opportunities. Samuel Mwanje from Maanyi Sub County in Mityana District noted that COOs have relieved tenants of eviction fears.
Gomba District Chairperson Godfrey Kiviiri called on Parliament to support the widespread issuance of COOs to further reduce land conflicts. Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ronald Katende affirmed that the initiative has significantly lowered land disputes in Gomba East. Gomba East MP Hon. Robinah Rwakojo encouraged beneficiaries to leverage the certificates for economic gain.
“If used well, these documents will enable you to educate your children and secure household food security,” she advised.
The issuance of 410 Certificates of Occupancy in Gomba marks a crucial step in formalizing land ownership and fostering economic growth. With growing demand and notable successes, calls for expanding the program across the central region continue to gain momentum.
