Local solutions gain ground in East Africa

In Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya, a decentralized approach to land administration promises more accessible dispute resolution and a better deal for women. Among the challenges however, are old social attitudes that pre-empt discussion about women’s right to control land. In Lira district, for example, in-laws and land-grabbers routinely chase widows off land. A “viciously vibrant land market” often means that women are swindled in Bugunda district. Local courts are handicapped because they lack an adequate mandate and proper resources to be effective, but they are more accessible than higher-level ones. Awareness is changing and institutional reform coincides with a shift in attitudes.