South Sudan High Court: Politicians Fueling Land Grabbing Crisis

• Politics is fueling land grabbing in South Sudan, with politicians accused of shielding individuals who illegally acquire community land.
• The National Land Policy aims to introduce a digital land registration system, establish specialized land courts, and strengthen oversight of land administration institutions.
• Civil society groups are pushing for the passage of the policy to combat illegal land transactions and curb politicking in land acquisition.

Edimond likened this practice to money laundering, where illegally acquired assets are later legitimized through formalization.

The Institute of Social Policy and Research (ISPR) has presented findings on land grabbing across South Sudan, highlighting the role of politics in fueling this issue. According to ISPR's Chief Executive Officer Boboya James Edimond, political interference has undermined legal procedures governing land acquisition, leading to rising disputes in several parts of the country. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in areas where land values have risen, such as Juba, Nimule, and Mangala. The study found that individuals are seizing large tracts of community land without following due process, often with the tacit support of politicians. Edimond likened this practice to money laundering, where illegally acquired assets are later legitimized through formalization. As a result, communities are being dispossessed of their land, leading to social and economic instability.

To address the issue of land grabbing, civil society organizations are pushing for the passage of the National Land Policy. The National Land Policy was approved by the Council of Ministers in October 2023 and officially tabled in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly in November 2024, where it is currently awaiting further readings and adoption. However, continued delays in its adoption have allowed land-grabbing practices to continue unchecked. Edimond warned that without stronger legislation, communities will remain vulnerable to exploitation by individuals and politicians seeking to acquire land through illicit means. The proposed policy aims to introduce a digital land registration system, establish specialized land courts, and strengthen oversight of land administration institutions.

The adoption of the National Land Policy is crucial for strengthening land governance in South Sudan. Civil society groups are working closely with lawmakers to ensure that the policy is passed, and public awareness campaigns are being launched to educate communities about the importance of protecting their land rights. The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development has welcomed the report, describing it as an important contribution toward advancing the National Land Policy. Once adopted, the policy will provide a solid foundation for additional legislation, including laws on community land, land registration, and land surveys.

Lawyers and compliance officers in South Sudan should watch for the passage of the National Land Policy, which is expected to provide stronger legislation to combat illegal land transactions and curb politicking in land acquisition.

Source: Original reporting via Institute of Social Policy and Research (ISPR)