LAND RIGHTS AND ENVIRONMENT JUSTICE

These are very prevalent human rights issues locally, nationally and a globally. Through, this theme, HURIFO would be contributing to SDGs 1(1.4), 2(2.3); 13(13.3) & 15(2, 9 b & c).

Population growth, poverty, unclear boundaries, unregistered land, refugee influx and end of civil strife in Northern Uganda has related in increasing demand for land creating crises between inter tribes (Nwoya district – Acholi and Joam), Amuru- Apaa (Acholi and Madi), Puranga (Langi and Acholi) but also inter-clan conflict as well individuals. Meanwhile environmental degradation ( indiscriminate commercial charcoal production, industrial waste dumping, air pollution, poor farming methods,)is a result of inadequate adaptation, low levels of technology, community ignorance or market externalities, no alternative source of energy within the rural communities; the above scenarios are   worsened by political forces, unequal access to power and resources, and structures of inequality. Therefore, the land and environmental crises are human rights crises that should be addressed through a commitment to land rights and environmental justice.

For the next 5 years HURIFO will implement strategies to protect the land rights of the indigents, increase their land security and reduce land conflicts. It will also implement strategies to protect and conserve the environment to minimize adverse climatic effects and ensure a safe environment for the future, thereby contributing to the SDGs 13 and 15.

(SO2.1) To protect and promote the land rights, and security for all in the project areas.

(KRA 2.1) Land access, utilization, control ownership and security improved.

Implementation Interventions

1. Advocate for gender equality in land access, utilization, ownership and security of customary land for all in the project areas.
2. Facilitate community to adopt and acquire appropriate land ownership documents for sustainable land security and development.

• Carry out community sensitization on land laws, policies and rights.

(SO2.2). To promote environmental protection and conservation for sustainable ecology.

(KRA 2.2). Rights holders and duty bearers are actively engaged in protecting and promoting   environmental rights and justice.

Implementation Interventions

1. Undertake routine researches to identify and report on environmental situations in the community.
2. Conduct advocacy for the protection, and conservation of the indigenous environment and ecosystem.

• Carrying out community awareness creation (sensitization, dialogues, IEC, training, print and mass media) on environment protection and conservation.

1. Network and collaborate with partners on environmental rights and justice.
2. Support and facilitate community driven efforts/ initiatives towards environmental protection, and conservation.