Ezrah Kashumbusha.
KAMPALA, February 25, 2024 | The Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development has announced a move aimed at addressing the issue of land grabbing in Uganda. The government has revealed plans to license and register all land brokers operating in the country as part of a comprehensive strategy to curb fraudulent land transactions.
According to Obbo Dennis, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development, the decision to license land brokers comes in response to the persistent problem of land grabbing, which has been fueled in part by unregulated brokers. Dennis emphasized that regulating land brokers is a critical component of the government’s efforts to tackle land-related issues and combat fraud in property transactions.
“All brokers involved in land and property transactions, both on the seller and buyer sides, will be required to obtain licenses,” stated Dennis. “These licenses will be recorded on the title deeds of the purchased land, ensuring traceability and accountability in case of any disputes or issues arising from the transaction.”
The proposed bill seeks to establish a regulatory framework for the real estate sector. It aims to provide clarity and oversight in real estate transactions by requiring all land brokers to undergo registration and obtain operating licenses.
The bill, titled the Real Estate Bill 2024, is currently undergoing final consultations and is awaiting approval from the cabinet before being presented to parliament for reading. Once enacted, it will empower the government to monitor and regulate the activities of land brokers, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in the real estate sector.
The move has been welcomed by various stakeholders, including brokers and estate developers, who acknowledge the need for stricter regulations to safeguard against fraudulent land transactions. By licensing and registering land brokers, the government aims to create a more transparent and accountable system that promotes responsible land management and ownership.
