A Big Step Forward for Women’s Housing Rights in Uganda 

Shelter and Settlements Alternatives (SSA), in partnership with local and national government institutions, has reached an important milestone in the Women Spaces project—the successful issuance of 306 Certificates of Customary Ownership (CCOs) in Uganda, surpassing the original target of 300. 

The five-year Women Spaces project works to advance women’s equal rights to land, housing, and livelihoods, with activities taking place in Kamuli, Mityana, Kayunga, and Wakiso (Entebbe). At the heart of this effort is strengthening land security for families who have lived on customary land for generations, often without formal legal recognition. 

A Certificate of Customary Ownership (CCO) is a government-issued document that officially recognizes land rights held under customary systems. While customary land is governed by local traditions rather than formal land titles, a CCO provides legal proof of ownership and helps protect landholders from disputes, encroachment, and land grabbing. 

The impact for families is significant. With a CCO, households gain peace of mind knowing their land rights are legally recognized. Clear boundary records reduce conflicts between neighbours and within families, while secure tenure encourages people to invest in farming, housing, and land improvements. Importantly, CCOs can formally record the rights of women, children, and other vulnerable family members, offering protection in cases of inheritance, separation, or migration. 

Beyond individual households, the benefits extend to entire communities. When land rights are clearly documented, communities experience stronger land governance, better planning, and greater stability—laying the foundation for long-term, inclusive development. 

This achievement reflects the power of the Women Spaces project in Uganda. The 306 CCOs issued under the project represent more than documents—they represent security, opportunity, and progress for women, families, and communities across Uganda.