Communication approaches for addressing land conflicts in Uganda: a case study of lira district local government.

Abstract

This study examined communication approaches used by Lira District Local Government in addressing land conflicts in Lira District, Uganda. The study was guided by three objectives: to identify the communication approaches used in addressing land conflicts, assess their effectiveness, and examine factors influencing their effectiveness. A descriptive research design using a mixed-methods approach was adopted. Data were collected from 77 respondents, including 30 questionnaire respondents, 19 key informants, and 3 focus group discussions. Questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions were used as data collection methods. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that community dialogue meetings, mediation, clan meetings, religious gatherings, Local Council meetings, and radio programmes were the main communication approaches employed in addressing land conflicts. Mediation and community dialogue emerged as the most preferred approaches because they promote participation, negotiation, reconciliation, and peaceful settlement of disputes. The study further established that communication approaches contribute to improved understanding, reduced tensions, and strengthened relationships among disputing parties. However, their effectiveness is affected by factors including inadequate resources, political interference, low literacy levels, cultural norms, power imbalances, and limited awareness of land rights and conflict resolution mechanisms. The study concludes that participatory communication approaches are essential for sustainable land conflict resolution because they encourage dialogue, inclusion, and consensus-building among stakeholders. The study recommends strengthening community dialogue platforms, increasing support for peacebuilding activities, enhancing public sensitization on land rights, building the capacity of local leaders and mediators, and promoting collaboration among government institutions, cultural leaders, religious institutions, civil society organizations, and communities to improve land conflict management