Authorities Move to Stop Land Grabbing in Central Equatoria

(JUBA COUNTY) – Authorities in Central Equatoria State have begun allocating land plots and marking road boundaries in Kapuri Hai Salam as part of efforts to control illegal settlements and land grabbing in areas around Juba.

The exercise aims to ensure that land is allocated to rightful owners and to organise roads and residential areas in the growing suburb. Officials say the programme is intended to bring order to settlement patterns and reduce disputes over land ownership.

Residents with valid land documents have been urged to start building on their plots in order to prevent illegal occupation. Authorities also called on members of the public to follow official procedures when applying for land.

Local officials say cooperation between residents, community leaders, local authorities and security agencies is important to ensure that the allocation of plots is carried out smoothly and fairly.

The land allocation programme also includes the marking of roads in Kapuri Hai Salam. Officials say this step will help improve urban planning and ease congestion as Juba continues to expand.

According to state authorities, the exercise covers residential areas classified as third and fourth class zones in Kapuri Hai Salam. The programme is expected to help improve housing organisation in the capital and reduce problems linked to uncontrolled settlement.

Officials from the State Ministry of Housing, Land and Public Utilities said similar exercises will be extended to other areas in Central Equatoria State as part of broader efforts to address land grabbing and improve land management.

Residents in Kapuri Hai Salam have largely welcomed the initiative, saying clearer plot boundaries and organised road networks will help reduce disputes and improve living conditions in the area.

The launch of the exercise was attended by Juba County Commissioner Emmanuel Tete Ezbon and other government officials, including technical staff from relevant state ministries. Authorities say the programme forms part of wider efforts to improve urban planning and land administration in Central Equatoria State and South Sudan.