By Vincent Emong
The Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Kumi, James Akodai, has raised concern over a growing wave of land-related conflicts in the Teso sub-region, describing them as one of the most pressing challenges affecting families, clans, and neighboring communities.
“Currently, the biggest issue I’ve observed over the past two months is land wrangles,” Akodai said. “These conflicts are widespread—in families, within clans, and among neighbors registering over five cases a week".
According to Akodai, his office has handled at least eight major land dispute cases in the past month alone, highlighting the scale of the problem.
He noted that his office is working closely with the Iteso Cultural Union, which plays a key role in preserving cultural norms and guiding traditional conflict resolution.
“We collaborate with the Iteso Cultural Union because it addresses matters of culture and tradition. We have consistently encouraged our people to resolve disputes at the family and clan levels rather than rushing to courts of law,” he explained.
Akodai emphasized that while land remains a sensitive and valuable resource, communities must prioritize unity and peaceful coexistence.
“As the people of Teso, we must have love for one another. Resolving issues at the domestic level helps maintain peace, fosters growth, and supports development,” he said.
He also highlighted concerns about gender inequality in land inheritance, noting that many disputes stem from the exclusion of women.
“In many families, the girl child is denied a share of the family estate, which is unjust. Both boys and girls are entitled to benefit equally from their father’s property,” he stated.
He added that such injustices often lead to disputes among siblings, particularly when brothers deny their sisters their rightful share.
On the issue of litigation, Akodai cautioned against taking land disputes to court unless absolutely necessary.
“When you take matters to court, you spend a lot of time. Cases take long to conclude, and sometimes they are even referred back to the community,” he said. He further noted that land disputes make up a significant portion of the backlog in courts.
He added that court processes can be costly and may deepen divisions within families.
“If one side wins, the other is required to pay legal costs. In a family setting, this can destroy harmony. However, when disputes are resolved at home, there are no such costs, and reconciliation is easier,” he explained.
Akodai praised community-based dispute resolution mechanisms, saying they promote participation and help uncover the truth through shared history.
“People are able to reconcile, shake hands, and move forward because they understand each other and their background,” he said.
He called on Local Council II (LC2) leaders and clan heads to play a more active and impartial role in resolving conflicts.
“LC2 leaders must promote truthfulness and avoid taking sides. They should seek accurate historical context before making decisions,” he advised.
To clan leaders, Akodai emphasized their responsibility as custodians of both land and unity.
“They must ensure peace among members, manage land matters responsibly, and designate individuals to handle land issues within the clan,” he said.
He also warned against unauthorized land sales, urging adherence to cultural structures.
“No clan land should be sold without the knowledge and consent of clan members and leadership. While the government is the overall custodian of land, clans remain the immediate custodians,” he stated.
As land disputes continue to rise, Akodai’s message remains clear: sustainable solutions lie within families and communities, where dialogue, fairness, and respect for tradition can restore harmony and safeguard the future of the Teso people.
