The legislation is seen as essential to fostering stability, economic growth, and social harmony in a country where land issues have become emotive and historically contributed to disputes

By: Emmanuel Mandella

In a significant step towards the realization of a comprehensive land policy framework, the Rt. Hon. Nunu Kumba, the Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), met with a delegation led by Hon. Michael Chanjiek, the Minister of Land, Housing, and Urban Development.

The meeting focused on the advancement of the land policy Bill, a legislative effort that will be presented after the ongoing National Budget discussions are concluded.

Hon. Chanjiek briefed Speaker Nunu on the progress made in drafting the bill, which aims to address the management and regulation of land use across South Sudan.

The legislation is seen as essential to fostering stability, economic growth, and social harmony in a country where land issues have historically contributed to disputes and displacement.

Speaker Nunu expressed her optimism following the meeting, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between legislative and executive bodies.

“I was incredibly pleased to see the collaboration of the legislature and the executive,” she stated. “This is the spirit that the Unity Government should continue in. I’m also grateful to those partners collaborating with the Government of the Republic of South Sudan to bring about meaningful policies that will secure the futures of generations to come.”

The Speaker’s remarks underscored the critical role of unity in governance as South Sudan navigates its path to sustained peace and development. The collaborative approach reflects the government’s commitment to implementing comprehensive policies that address the nation’s pressing challenges.

The Minister of Land, Hon. Chanjiek, highlighted the importance of the proposed land policy, noting that it will set the groundwork for resolving land ownership disputes, facilitating urban planning, and enhancing land administration. The bill, when enacted, is expected to have far-reaching implications for housing development, investment, and rural development across the nation.

The international partners working alongside the South Sudanese government were also acknowledged for their technical support and dedication. Their involvement, Speaker Nunu stressed, is vital to aligning national policy with global best practices and ensuring that future generations benefit from well-managed land resources.

As the TNLA prepares to resume discussions on the National Budget, the promise of the land policy bill adds a layer of anticipation for legislative progress that could redefine land governance in South Sudan.

The land policy bill is set to be a cornerstone of national efforts aimed at promoting sustainable development and equitable land distribution. The government’s move has sparked conversations across civil society and among citizens who hope the policy will bring clarity and fairness in land matters.

This development marks another step forward for the Unity Government as it demonstrates a commitment to meaningful reform through collaboration and proactive governance.

“This is the spirit that the Unity Government should continue in. I’m also grateful to those partners collaborating with the Government of the Republic of South Sudan to bring about meaningful policies that will secure the futures of generations to come,” South Sudan national assembly speaker, Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba.