Land Conflict Turns Deadly in Kisoro, One Murdered

By Uziah Tusaasire

The incident occurred on April 3, 2025, at an unspecified time. After committing the crime, the suspect turned himself in at Bunagana Police Station around midday, where he was immediately arrested and charged.

Police in Kisoro District are investigating the murder of a 53-year-old man, allegedly killed by his younger brother over a long-standing land dispute.

The deceased, identified as Evarist Nzabarinda, was reportedly murdered by his 35-year-old brother, Zaire Maniriho, both residents of Gakoro Cell, Gasasa Ward, Bunagana Town Council.

According to Kigezi Region Police spokesperson Elly Maate, the incident occurred on April 3, 2025, at an unspecified time. After committing the crime, the suspect turned himself in at Bunagana Police Station around midday, where he was immediately arrested and charged.

The police statement indicates that the brothers had been living alone in the same house but had an ongoing land conflict that had caused tension for a long time.

A postmortem examination was conducted, witness statements recorded, and the crime scene was processed and documented by the Bunagana Police Station O.C and team.

Authorities have urged communities to resolve disputes peacefully through local leaders and legal channels rather than resorting to violence.

Once investigations are complete, the suspect will be arraigned before court to face murder charges.

According to a report titled ‘’Research on Land Conflicts and Resolution in Uganda’’ released in December 2014 by Grassroots Justice Network; Land disputes are widespread in Uganda, affecting 33%2 to 50%3 of landholders. In Uganda, land disputes are the most significant form of conflict, with many escalating into violence. Land disputes crop up throughout Uganda, with the greatest number of disputes arising in Northern Uganda Districts, some parts of Hoima and Amuru District where oil has recently been discovered and where the government has given away large tracts of land.

Written by Editor