By Our Reporter 

Ngora District – What was once a peaceful landscape of green fields and farming communities is now slowly turning into a zone of rising tension. In Ngora District, land – the region’s most valuable resource – is becoming a source of deep conflict, with disputes threatening the peace and stability of local communities.

Mike Odongo Lo' Asio, the LC5 Chairperson of Ngora District, has sounded the alarm over the escalating number of land wrangles in the area. He attributes the growing tensions to a mix of population pressure, unclear boundaries, and seasonal changes such as flooding, which often shift landmarks and fuel disputes.

"Land should not be a cause for bloodshed," Odongo said. "It should be used to empower our people through farming and economic development, especially during the rainy season. But sadly, we are seeing more violence and conflict instead."

Odongo is urging residents of the Teso sub-region to resolve disputes through peaceful, community-driven methods such as dialogue and mediation, rather than resorting to violence or costly legal battles. He stressed that traditional dispute resolution mechanisms, when used correctly, can rebuild broken relationships and maintain long-term peace.

Sherif Otim, the Parish Councilor for Odwarat Sub-county, emphasized the importance of respecting land boundaries and maintaining good neighborly relations. “When we know and respect each other’s boundaries, we protect not just the land, but the unity of our people,” he noted.

Meanwhile, in neighboring Soroti District, Moses Emugu, the LC3 Chairperson of Katine Sub-county, is also advocating for out-of-court settlements to reduce the financial burden and delays associated with litigation. “Going to court can cost families everything. We need to embrace negotiation and dialogue. These are our people – not enemies,” he said.

As rainfall continues to reshape the land, leaders warn that more disputes could arise if urgent measures are not taken to sensitize the public and establish clear land ownership systems.

For now, the fields of Ngora remain fertile – but also fragile, as the line between farmland and battleground becomes dangerously thin.