South Sudan drafts land policy to curb disputes – minister

JUBA – South Sudan’s Minister of Land, Housing and Urban Development Michael Changjiek Gei has said that a draft national land policy aims to address the country’s rampant land conflicts, which often lead to violence and lengthy court battles.

Speaking to legislators at the opening of a consultative workshop in Juba on Wednesday, Chiangjiek outlined the policy’s goals in tackling land-related issues.

“Land ownership, in the text, says land belongs to the people,” Chiangjiek explained. Some parliamentarians requested a more specific reference to communities. However, the constitution restricts our wording. Therefore, we say ‘the people’ as dictated by the constitution.”

The ministry is collaborating with parliament to ensure the policy’s passage, paving the way for amending the 2009 Land Act.

“We all need to work together to make this and other policies a reality,” Chiangjiek urged. “This country is bigger than any of us. We must prioritize national interests over personal ones. Building policy isn’t just for the current government; it’s for future generations. We need to leave them a valuable inheritance.”

He added that the policy aims to create an environment conducive to attracting investors.

Jemma Nunu Kemba, Speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, highlighted the land’s centrality to South Sudanese livelihoods.

“Land ownership, use, and management challenges have caused conflict and tension within communities and between national and subnational governments, particularly Juba, which serves as both the central and state headquarters,” Nunu said.

“This policy should provide clear clarifications. Today, we have an opportunity to address these issues head-on through a comprehensive and inclusive national land policy,” she added.

South Sudan drafted its National Land Policy alongside the Land Act in 2009. Currently, the country relies on the pre-independence act, with each state having its own land policies, laws, and regulations.

Following independence in 2011, land policies were reviewed by parliament. However, in 2014, the Ministry of Lands withdrew the draft National Land Policy, citing its shortcomings and requesting further revisions.

Land disputes have been a major concern since 2005 and South Sudan’s independence in 2011.

These disputes are particularly prevalent in Juba and other major towns, often leading to violent conflicts, deaths, and displacements.