In Northern Uganda, agriculture meets migration – and political tensions collide with economic opportunity. Especially in the regions around Gulu and Lamwo, the realities on the ground reveal how deeply intertwined the challenges of development, displacement, and border conflict truly are.
A woman on her small plot of land in Palabek Refugee Settlement. She fled the war in Kudo County, South Sudan.
© Esther Ruth Mbabazi
Tradition Meets Tension: Cotton Farming in the Borderlands
For generations, smallholder farmers in Northern Uganda have depended on cultivating crops like sesame and cotton. The fertile soils around Lamwo, near the South Sudanese border, are ideal for farming – but the land is also becoming a flashpoint.
In July 2021, the situation escalated when armed groups from South Sudan’s Central Equatoria state crossed into Uganda, forcibly evicting farmers. The accusation: illegal use of South Sudanese land. Some farmers reported extortion, with demands of up to 200,000 Ugandan shillings (approx. €50 / $55) to continue working their fields.
Still, many refuse to give up. Organizations such as the Gulu Agricultural Development Company (GADC) continue to support local farmers – promoting organically and fairly certified cotton and sesame production. These initiatives not only strengthen the local economy in the region but also meet international standards for sustainability and ethical trade.
Refugees Seeking Land and Livelihoods
Uganda is considered one of the world’s most welcoming countries for refugees. Many people fleeing the civil war in South Sudan have found protection in Uganda. In the Bidibidi refugee settlement in Yumbe District, over 190,000 people currently live – making it one of the largest settlements globally.
But with food rations from the World Food Programme (WFP) declining, the pressure to become self-reliant is increasing. Many refugees are now turning to land outside official settlements – often in sensitive border regions such as Gobiri (Moyo District) or Mgburugburuchu (Yumbe District).
A 13-year-old girl collects soil to help build their hut in Zone 9 of Palabek Refugee Settlement. She fled the war in South Sudan together with her parents. © Esther Ruth Mbabazi
There, they initiate small-scale farming – often without any legal land rights. These informal resettlements may offer short-term hope, but also risk sparking long-term tensions: with host communities or South Sudanese groups who also claim the land.
Between Hope and Uncertainty: What’s Next?
© Esther Ruth Mbabazi
Northern Uganda exemplifies the delicate balance between economic development, political fragility, and humanitarian responsibility. Building sustainable agricultural systems holds real promise – for both local communities and refugees. But progress is often hindered by:
- Ongoing border disputes,
- Unclear land ownership, and
- Lack of access to legal protection.
To unlock the region’s potential, we need clear political action: fair land distribution, cross-border cooperation, and targeted support for local initiatives.
Only then can cotton, sesame – and peace grow together in Northern Uganda.
“The project is kindly supported by KAYA & KATO“