NELSON K
There is growing tension in Rukungiri district following the reallocation of 203 hectares of land in Bwambara Subcounty, previously owned by persons with disabilities, for the development of an industrial park.
The land, located in Omukikomo cell near Bwambara Subcounty headquarters, was originally gifted to the disabled community by the government in the 1970s. It has long been seen as a symbol of empowerment, especially for the blind and other vulnerable groups.
According to district officials, the land was handed back to the government by the current disabled leadership to pave the way for industrial development, with a promise that an alternative piece of land would be allocated in return.
Mr. Oryoroba James, the secretary of the Rukungiri District Disabled Council, confirmed the handover and dismissed allegations that he and fellow leaders had sold the land privately. He stated that those in doubt should seek clarification from the Chief Administrative Officer, the LC5 Chairperson, or the RDC.
Meanwhile, local residents in Bwambara say the land had been used for farming, but economic activities have since stopped after news of its gazetting for the industrial park spread.
In response, Rukungiri CAO Hajji Masokoyi Waswa said the government originally owned the land and had only allowed the disabled to use it. He clarified that since the government has reclaimed the land for public benefit, claims of private sale are misleading.
