86 local leaders from Gatsata, Kavumu and Nyamagabe learnt some of the skills that will assist them in solving some of the land disputes in region.
The local leaders commonly known as Abunzi were trained on how to solve the cases fairly without engaging themselves in corrupt activities so as to avoid more conflicts.
A RISD trainer highlighted on the need for the leaders to sensitize the public whenever an expropriation process was going to take place and ensure human rights were well adhered to in the evacuation process.
Kairaba also noted that, majority of the people were not aware of their rights or even the procedure taken during the expropriation process. “That’s why people always complain of poor compensation and forced evictions since they are not well informed, “she remarked.
She further pointed out that the public ought to be involved in decision making whenever there was a need for expropriation. ”The residents should be aware of the interests before leaving the land.”
RISD on their part have been conducting nation wide awareness programs aimed at training leaders on some of the best practices to use when solving land disputes.
The director has on frequent occasions urged the judiciary to give more attention in solving land disputes speedily.”There is always a risk of conflict if the cases are delayed,” Kairaba commented.
She added that they have been helping in land resolution whereby they try to merge the fighting parties and train them on how they would deal effectively with their case.
Among the solutions RISD involves the land commission to investigate the case and later on passes the verdict of which the unsatisfied party is allowed to extend the case to a court of law.
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