Evaluation of the tenure-responsive land use planning process: case study of Kitumba Sub-County, Kabale District, Uganda

Abstract

Sustainable land management and tenure security are critical issues for many Sub-Saharan African countries, including Uganda. Conventional Land Use Planning practices have often been disconnected from tenure security, leading to inefficient implementation and persistent challenges such as insecure land rights, and unsustainable land use. This study investigates the Tenure-Responsive Land Use Planning (TR-LUP) approach, an innovative model designed to integrate land tenure concerns into LUP processes to promote sustainable development and security of tenure. The research focuses on Kitumba sub- county, Kabale district, which serves as Uganda’s pioneer implementation site for TR- LUP. This research identifies a gap in understanding how TR-LUP is practically applied at the local level and whether it aligns with Uganda’s legal and regulatory frameworks. The study aims to evaluate the TR-LUP approach in comparison to conventional LUP, assess adherence to legal frameworks, and determine the approach's sustainability. Methodologically, the research employed a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative interviews with community members, local leaders, and policy implementers, alongside document analysis of planning records and legal frameworks. Quantitative data were also collected through surveys to assess community participation levels and perceived effectiveness. Data analysis involved thematic coding for qualitative responses and statistical analysis for survey results. The findings indicate that TR-LUP presents significant advantages over conventional LUP, including enhanced community participation and increased tenure security. However, challenges such as limited institutional capacity, inadequate resources, and inconsistent legal alignment were noted. The research highlights that while Kitumba’s experience demonstrates the potential of TR-LUP to support sustainable land management, strategic improvements in capacity building and resource allocation are necessary. The study concludes that TR-LUP, if effectively tailored to local contexts and supported by robust institutional frameworks, can contribute to sustainable land management and tenure security in Uganda. Recommendations include the development of localized guidelines based on TR-LUP principles, enhanced stakeholder collaboration, and targeted training programs to strengthen implementation capacities.