By KT Reporter
The Bishop of Sebei Diocese, Rt. Rev Paul Kiptoo Masaba, has called on Christians to use the Lenten season to pray for peace and unity in Sebei sub-region, which is grappling with escalating land conflicts.
While presiding over a service at St Peter’s Cathedral on Sunday, 22, Kiptoo urged believers to dedicate the 40-day period of Lent to seeking God’s intervention in the persistent land wrangles affecting communities across the region.
Sebei sub-region, which comprises Kapchorwa District, Kween District and Bukwo District, has in recent years witnessed a rise in disputes stemming from boundary disagreements, inheritance conflicts, and contested ownership of customary land.
Kiptoo noted that the continued land disputes have fueled division among families and clans, slowed development, and threatened peaceful coexistence in the area.
“As we enter this holy season of Lent, I urge all Christians to commit themselves to prayer, repentance and reconciliation. Let us pray for our land and for harmony among our people,” he said.
He emphasized that Lent is a period of reflection, forgiveness and renewal, and called upon community leaders, elders and government authorities to work together in resolving the conflicts amicably.
Meanwhile, Augustine Chesakit, one of the local leaders in Sebei, said the land conflicts have strained relations within communities and disrupted livelihoods.
He noted that leaders at district and sub-county levels are engaging elders and clan heads to promote dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution.“We welcome the bishop’s call for prayer because land is a sensitive matter in our communities. We are encouraging residents to avoid violence and instead use established structures to resolve their grievances,” Chesakit said.
He added that local leaders are working closely with security agencies and land boards to ensure that disputes are handled lawfully and fairly.
Church leaders say the Lenten season presents an opportunity for communities to reflect not only on their spiritual lives but also on social challenges affecting the region.Bishop Kiptoo reaffirmed the church’s commitment to working with cultural and government institutions to foster lasting peace in Sebei.
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