The issue of land grabbing is alarmingly prevalent in South Sudan, particularly in Juba.
Shockingly, residents with legitimate claims to plots report being threatened at gunpoint, igniting numerous disputes within communities across the city. This is not an isolated incident but a widespread problem affecting nearly all areas of Juba. The pressing question remains: why do those in positions of power seize land belonging to the church or the impoverished, especially when some possess ownership documents.
Recent months have witnessed a surge in plot disputes among Juba residents due to unauthorized demarcation exercises. This situation has highlighted the ambiguous roles of both the government and the community in land management. Furthermore, numerous court hearings concerning land disputes have been conducted nationwide, with individuals frequently asserting ownership claims. Despite these legal proceedings, conflicts and disagreements over plots in Juba persist, with many residents and alleged land grabbers seemingly ignoring the authority of law enforcement agencies tasked with establishing order.
Land grabbing is often perpetrated by politicians holding high government positions and others wielding significant influence. Some of the targeted land belongs to individuals who fled as refugees during the 2013-2016 crisis in Juba and are currently in the diaspora. Despite possessing clear documentation, their absence makes them vulnerable, as grabbers brazenly occupy vacant land in Juba without fear of consequence. The situation is further complicated by alleged inconsistencies within local authorities, including area chiefs, commissioners, and the Ministry of Housing, where reports suggest the same plot being sold to as many as ten different individuals based on bribery and intimidation. This chaotic environment fuels conflict among citizens.
In South Sudan, firearms have become a disturbingly common tool for land acquisition. Any minor land dispute can escalate, tragically resulting in the deaths of three or more people from opposing sides. This violent practice must be condemned, and land grabbers should be criminalized and brought before the high court.
Disturbingly, South Sudanese politicians and military officials implicated in the exploitation of the world’s newest nation have reportedly received crucial support from international individuals and corporations profiting from these dealings. Investigations by The Sentry have revealed that nearly every instance of confirmed or alleged corruption or financial crime in South Sudan involves links to an international corporation, a multinational bank, or a foreign government.
These investigations have highlighted several illustrative cases of international actors connected to violence and grand corruption, demonstrating the significant complicity of external actors in the exploitation of South Sudan. Leading South Sudanese officials and their international commercial partners often respond to commercial and political incentives without facing specific focus and targeted consequences, perpetuating a climate of corruption.
I urge the government of South Sudan to urgently address the issue of land grabbing nationwide by implementing decisive measures and resolving the pervasive insecurity in the country.
God protect South Sudan
Be the spectator!