Assessing the role of the STDM in enhancing the Land tenure security of oil-palm farmers in Bugala Island

Abstract

This study assessed the role of the STDM in enhancing land tenure security of oil palm farmers in Bugala Island. Specifically, the study was guided by three objectives which included assessing the perceived impact of STDM on tenure security, the factors that influenced the effective implementation of STDM and analyzing the socioeconomic changes and determine if they can be attributed to the implementation of STDM in Bugala Island. The studied considered a cross-sectional survey design utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approach. Data was collected using questionnaires and an interview guide. The findings revealed that the perception of oil palm farmers in Bugala island is generally high, with a significant portion of respondents confident about their rights after the implementation of STDM since it facilitated clearer boundary definitions, improved monitoring of land use, and effective resolution of disputes. The key factors contributing to the successful implementation of STDM include robust community participation, government support, strong legal frameworks, availability of advanced technology, and comprehensive training and capacity building. It was revealed that there were significant barriers that hinder the successful implementation of STDM. These include limited financial resources, technological know-how, inadequate legal structures, complex land tenure regimes, high corruption levels, and pervasive poverty. It was revealed that increased confidence in land rights, and clearly defined land boundaries were primary motivators for landholders to invest in land. The analysis of land use and land cover (LULC) changes between 2014 and 2024 demonstrates drastic transformations in Bugala Island's landscape. Notably, the expansion of plantations, particularly palm plantations by both Bidco and oil palm out growers has increased their coverage from 45.31% to 58.38%, reflecting the area's economic shift towards agricultural commercialization. Concurrently, the built-up land area surged from 0.36% to 2.48%, indicative of population growth and urban development. The drastic rise in bare land from 2.34% to 26.73% highlights the substantial deforestation and land clearance for agriculture and settlement, which has resulted in a severe decline in vegetation cover from 49.55% to 8.58%. Additionally, the increase in water bodies from 2.44% to 3.84% is likely due to rising water levels in Lake Victoria.