At least 24 huts were set ablaze in Olyeku Pambu village, Cana Parish, Paidha Sub-County, Zombo District, in a retaliatory attack sparked by a fatal land dispute on December 1, 2024.
The violence erupted after a resident, identified only as Juma, was killed in an altercation over land ownership with members of a neighbouring community. According to local leaders, the death of Juma inflamed tensions, leading to the destructive attack.
William Okethi, the LCIII Chairperson of Paidha Sub-County, confirmed the incident and called for peaceful mechanisms to address land disputes.
“This tragic event occurred on Sunday evening when 24 houses were burnt in Olyeku Pambu village. Reports indicate the violence was triggered by the killing of a man, Juma, during a dispute over land ownership,” Okethi said in an interview.
He noted that while no arrests have been made, calm was restored in the area after a heavy security deployment to defuse the tension.
Officers from Paidha Central Police Station visited the scene, documenting the extensive damage caused by the attack. The violence has left hundreds homeless, with women and children bearing the brunt of the displacement.
Zombo’s Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Bruno Mananu, assured residents that those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice.
“We caution the community against taking the law into their own hands. If you have grievances, please address them through lawful channels,” Mananu urged.
The West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, Collins Asea, described the situation as still under investigation, adding, “We are awaiting further updates from the Zombo District Police Commander.”
Rising Tensions Over Land Ownership
Zombo District has experienced a significant rise in violent land disputes in recent months, with incidents claiming lives, destroying property, and leaving many in abject poverty. Similar cases have been reported in Paidha Sub-County, as well as in Nyapea, Aka, Jangokoro, and Atyak Sub-Counties.
During a recent council session at Rolling Star Hall in Warr Town Council, Zombo District Resident Commissioner, Festus Ayikobua, called for collective action to address the rampant disputes. “The cases are widespread and require urgent attention,” he stated.
Underlying Causes
The 1995 Ugandan Constitution formally recognises customary land ownership, but disputes frequently arise in Zombo District, where more than 90% of land is under customary tenure.
Stella Biryema, head of the Human Rights Desk at Life Concern, a Zombo-based NGO, emphasised the importance of land registration to mitigate disputes. “Communities should embrace official land registration to protect their rights and prevent conflicts,” she advised.
Calls for Peace
His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Ularker III, King of Alur, has repeatedly appealed to his subjects to avoid violence over land-related matters. The King has underscored the importance of unity and dialogue in resolving disputes, condemning any bloodshed over land ownership.
As investigations continue, the incident underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to land disputes in Zombo District, including public education on land rights, mediation mechanisms, and stronger enforcement of legal frameworks.
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