Land scarcity fuels fresh clashes between farmers and cattle keepers in Buliisa

Buliisa: Growing land scarcity in Buliisa District is sparking renewed clashes between crop farmers and cattle keepers, as both groups compete for dwindling natural resources.

The conflicts came to light during a harmonization meeting held on Thursday in Kasinyi Village, Nile Parish, Ngwedo Sub-county. The meeting, organized by the Hoima Caritas Development Organization (HOCADEO), aimed to address rising tensions and explore lasting solutions.

Pastoralist leader James Kuribakanya blamed the escalating land disputes on oil and gas activities, which have taken over large chunks of land, reducing space for both farming and grazing.

“Although people were compensated, our communities still rely heavily on agriculture, grazing, and fishing for survival,” Kuribakanya said.

On the other hand, farmers like Regina Nancha accused cattle keepers of deliberately grazing livestock in gardens, destroying food crops, and leaving families with nothing to eat.

However, pastoralist Moses Musaija argued that farmers are also at fault for blocking traditional animal pathways to water sources and for mistreating herders, actions which sometimes provoke retaliatory incidents.

Badodi Sanoni, another pastoralist, called for restraint, urging fellow herders to remain vigilant but cooperative with crop farmers to foster peaceful coexistence.

Donoziyo Kugonza, a representative from HOCADEO, said the mounting tensions prompted the organization to intervene and facilitate dialogue among stakeholders.
“This meeting is part of efforts to find lasting, peaceful solutions that support both farming and pastoral livelihoods,” he noted.

Resolutions from the meeting include; farmers should open wider pathways for animals to access water sources, cattle keepers must clearly brand their animals for easy identification and local leaders are to hold monthly meetings and enact by-laws protecting both farmers and herders.

Deputy RDC Buliisa, Silvester Tumukurate, also addressed the meeting, urging both communities to respect and protect each other’s property and avoid confrontations.

“We need harmony and cooperation. Destruction of property only escalates tensions and harms everyone,” he said.

With land in Buliisa under pressure due to oil developments and population growth, stakeholders say continued dialogue, regulation, and mutual respect are key to managing competing land uses.

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