MUHANGA - Local leaders in Ruhango district committed to applying the new land law in resolving land disputes.

They made the resolution last weekend after completing a four-day training workshop on the new Land law, organised by NGOs, RCN Justice & Democracy and Ingabo Syndicate.

The training which was held St. Andre Centre-Kabgayi attracted 60 stakeholders drawn from the agriculture field and public leadership.

The participants said the training was timely and it equipped them with knowledge of the land law. Due to ignorance of the law, they said, mediators have been taking decisions without reference to the law.

The Mayor of Ruhango, Celestine Twagirumukiza, said most problems in the district originate from land disputes, adding that the residents need additional sensitisation on proper land use.

"The district is going to establish a team of local leaders to educate and create awareness for all. This will promote proper use of land while serving to resolve land disputes and reduce land degradation which affects the environment,” Twagirumukiza said.

Angela Nirere, from RCN, urged the leaders to be exemplary and always apply the law appropriately, without violating the rights of residents.

A total of 180 leaders are expected to receive similar training in the southern province.

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