President Yoweri Museveni has settled a long-standing land dispute in Kyaka South County, Kyegegwa District, bringing relief to the local community.
The contested land, which covers Kyaka I, Kazinga Town Council, and the Rwentuha and Migamba sub-counties, had been earmarked for industrial development, causing uncertainty for the residents.
Addressing the locals at Rwentuha Primary School, the president assured them they would not be displaced. He promised to relocate the planned industrial park and the investor intending to set up an avocado factory to Kyaka II.
Museveni highlighted that the original plan to establish an industrial park in Kyaka I was aimed at boosting the local economy, creating jobs, and providing market access for the residents, citing the successful models in Namanve and Mbale.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to development, the president warned residents against encroaching on government land in the future.
He also called on the community to avoid further encroachment on wetlands, swamps, and forests, noting that such practices contribute to environmental degradation and prolonged droughts.
Museveni praised the people of Kyegegwa District for supporting the National Resistance Movement (NRM) message of wealth creation.
He, however, discouraged free-range grazing, urging farmers to adopt modern techniques that would improve profitability. He referenced Richard Nyakana’s one-acre model farm in Rwengaju, which generates Shs250 million annually through efficient land use, combining dairy farming, poultry, goat rearing, and food production.
The president also encouraged farmers to grow avocados to support the planned factory in Kyaka II. He pledged government support in improving milk production by providing tractors to help farmers grow animal feed, thereby phasing out free-grazing practices.
In addition to resolving the land dispute, President Museveni pledged to tarmac the Liberation Road, noting that while road development was important, the focus should remain on increasing household incomes.
He contributed Shs50 million to support the district leaders’ SACCO and promised to engage Dr. Florence Muranga in expanding market opportunities and adding value to bananas in Kyegegwa.
Kyaka South Member of Parliament Jackson Kafuuzi expressed relief over the resolution of the dispute, thanking the president for his intervention. He expressed optimism that the issue had been permanently resolved.
Kyegegwa District LCV Chairperson John Kisoke Byamukama informed the president that over 130,000 people currently live on the contested land, including those who have resided there for decades.
He emphasized that the land hosts essential infrastructure like schools, health centres, and churches, making evictions unjust.
The event was attended by several Members of Parliament, Resident District Commissioners, religious leaders, and other local officials.
