Land Tenure Systems and their Impact on Food Security in Mbale, Bukedea, and Luwero Districts, Uganda: A cross-sectional study

Background Food insecurity in Uganda remains a persistent challenge, partly driven by insecure land tenure and limited agricultural investment. Understanding how specific tenure systems and land use factors influence household food security is crucial for targeted policy action. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 398 households in Mbale, Bukedea, and Luwero districts. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on tenure systems, land acquisition, irrigation, pest outbreaks, and food security. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine predictors of food security at a 95% confidence level. Data analysis was conducted in Stata 18. Results Overall, 60.3% of households were food secure. Households with sufficient land were significantly more likely to be food secure (AOR = 22.08; 95% CI: 6.25–77.97; p < 0.001). Inherited land (AOR = 6.62; 95% CI: 1.12–39.18; p = 0.036) and newly acquired land (AOR = 4.99; 95% CI: 1.14–21.85; p = 0.033) also conferred increased food security. Households with irrigation access had 27.39 times higher odds of being food secure (95% CI: 2.52–297.55; p = 0.006), while those affected by pest and disease outbreaks were 99% less likely to be food secure (AOR = 0.01; 95% CI: 0.00–0.11; p < 0.001). Technology adoption (AOR = 14.71; 95% CI: 1.37–158.23; p = 0.027) and stable tenure perceptions were also significant. Female-headed households remained underrepresented in land ownership (10.6%). Conclusion and recommendations: Secure and equitable land tenure, irrigation access, and technology adoption are critical enablers of food security. Addressing tenure insecurity and gender disparities can enhance household resilience and agricultural productivity.