Factors influencing the implementation of the Uganda National Land Information System in Kampala and Wakiso Ministry Zonal Offices

Abstract

Land information systems are central to land sector reforms worldwide, aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, tenure security, and service delivery. In many developing countries, the transition from manual to digital land systems has delivered benefits, yet implementation encounters institutional, financial, technological, and social constraints. In Uganda, the Government has implemented the Uganda National Land Information System as part of land governance reforms to digitize records, streamline services, and reduce fraud. Despite this progress, concerns persist regarding effectiveness in high-demand service environments. The Kampala and Wakiso Ministry Zonal Offices, which handle a large share of land transactions, continue to face challenges related to governance arrangements, sustainability of funding, reliability of information and communications technology infrastructure, and inclusiveness of stakeholder participation. These challenges raise questions about the system’s ability to deliver land administration outcomes. This study examined the factors influencing the implementation of the Uganda National Land Information System in Kampala and Wakiso, with particular focus on governance, budgetary support, information and communications technology infrastructure, and stakeholder involvement. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach was adopted. Stratified random sampling ensured representation of key staff categories and external user groups. Purposive sampling targeted respondents with specialized knowledge and experience. The study involved 52 internal staff from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development and 170 external users, including surveyors, valuers, lawyers, planners, and landowners. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings indicate that governance structures provide an oversight framework, but centralized decision-making limits responsiveness at ministry zonal offices. Budgetary support remains donor-dependent, information and communications technology infrastructure faces reliability constraints, and stakeholder engagement is uneven. The study concludes that the Uganda National Land Information System has advanced land administration but remains institutionally and financially fragile.