Delayed compensation during compulsory land aquisition.

Abstract

Compulsory Land Acquisition in Uganda is challenged with the problem of delayed compensation. The main objective of this study was to assess the effects of delayed compensation in compulsory land acquisition to the affected communities in Uganda, with specific objectives being; To study the process followed during compulsory land acquisition and compensation in Uganda, To assess the challenges faced during compulsory land acquisition and compensation in Uganda, To determine the causes of delays in compensation during compulsory land acquisition in Uganda, To determine the effects of delayed compensation during compulsory land acquisition to the affected communities in Uganda. A case study of Kampala Jinja Express. Seven (7) processes, four (4) specific causes to the delay of the Kampala Jinja Express, seven (7) challenges, (9) effects of delayed compensation to affected communities were identified through comprehensive literature reviews drawn from land acquisition practices in various countries and primary data. Data was collected using questionnaire surveys, semi-structured interviews, across the target respondents regarding the effects of delayed compensation in compulsory land acquisition in Uganda. Mixed method research design was used, the target population of this study was 190 affected households, 10 land acquisition officers and 10 local leaders totaling to 210 respondents. The study found out that there is high rate of delayed compensation in compulsory land acquisition up to five years and more that is caused by factors such as, delay in availing consent letter, change in design, inadequate finance, long compensation process were found to be the most specific causes of delayed compensation of Kampala Jinja Expressway, Other causes include; Ownership disputes, poor implementation of legal frame work and policies, Inability to locate absentee owners and Disputes and court cases over delay compensation, the study also acknowledged inadequate finances, poor implementation and adherence to legislation and polices, weak legal frame work, poor communication and minimal involvement of stakeholders, dissatisfaction caused by inadequate compensation, land conflict among the affected persons being the major challenges of compulsory land acquisition in Uganda, the study revealed that disruption of economic activities, discouragement of development, anxiety, inflation, hardship in transacting with the affected property, poor social services, domestic violence, insecurity, and corn men were found to be the effects of delayed compensation to the affected communities, To avoid the challenges and effects, Ministry of Finance Economic Development should ensure that funds are available before embarking on the process of compensation, ensure comprehensive planning, clear policy on time frame and regular communication and dialogue with affected person, proper conduct and management of the process and good governance which is vital to provide a balance between the need of the government to acquire land promptly and protecting rights of people whose land is to be acquired thereby avoiding delayed compensation and its effects in compulsory land acquisition to the affected communities.