Thirty families in Bentiu, Unity State, who lost their land during the 2013 conflict, have received new land ownership documents.
The documents were handed over by the Civil Society Coalition on Natural Resources (CSCNR), helping these vulnerable people get their land rights back.
At the handover ceremony, CSCNR Programme Officer Gizam Moses stressed how important this initiative is for those most affected by past violence.
“We are responding to the urgent needs of community members who lost everything during the 2013 crisis,” Moses said.
“This includes people with disabilities, war widows, orphans, and the elderly. Legal land ownership is vital to protect them from land grabbing, unfair evictions, and further marginalization.”
Moses also urged government officials, community leaders, and civil society to raise awareness about land registration, even at the local level.
“The issue of returnees from Sudan and their land rights is still unresolved,” he added. “As development continues, more land-related challenges will arise. We ask the government and all stakeholders to prioritize legal protections for the underprivileged.”
He thanked CSCNR’s partners, including Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) South Sudan, the State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, and the Unity State Parliament, for their support. “Our doors remain open to more partners committed to the land rights of vulnerable communities,” he noted.
One beneficiary, Nyeawujume Puok Bol, shared her gratitude for the help, highlighting the economic struggles many face.
“I’m so excited about what CSCNR has done. We couldn’t afford the fees required by the Ministry of Land to process these documents,” she said. “Most of us are still living without shelter. We’re asking for help to build houses so we can finally resettle.”
However, Puok also expressed frustration with the lack of government support.
“Officials say they don’t have resources, but they only help the rich. Vulnerable people are left behind, and women face serious risks, especially during childbirth. We rely entirely on humanitarian aid.”
Mathiot Dut Gatluak, a Member of the Unity State Legislative Assembly, praised CSCNR’s efforts.
“Today is a great day. Vulnerable people in Bentiu have received 30 land registration documents, a vital step toward rebuilding their lives after the 2013 conflict,” he said.
“Thousands still live in Protection of Civilian camps, hoping for similar support. We urge CSCNR and partners to expand this initiative.”
Gatluak also asked the government to prioritize vulnerable people when allocating land.
“The constitution says all people are equal. Widows and orphans should not be left behind just because they can’t afford land fees,” he stated. “Everyone, man or woman, deserves a piece of land.”
Simon Galduang, another MP, echoed these thoughts, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable groups in securing land.
“Those with power often take land meant for the vulnerable. Victims are forced to go to court, and even then, justice is not guaranteed,” Galduang said. “This workshop is a fantastic initiative. It must continue until every underprivileged person can legally claim land and be protected from exploitation.”
