AMOS K
Residents of Rugarama North Sub-county in Ntungamo District have voiced their growing concerns about a group of Muslims claiming ownership of government land.
The contested land, located in Rugarama North, has been a vital resource for residents, especially those without sufficient personal land. For many years, it has been used for farming and grazing, with the government permitting communal access.
Jimmy Mukasa, one of the residents dependent on the land, shared his frustration, stating that his parents and other elders have utilized the land for decades, even engaging in tree-planting projects. Mukasa noted that the land has been a lifeline for many families, providing space for growing crops and rearing livestock. However, he warned that without government intervention, the situation could escalate to violence as residents are unwilling to relinquish the land without proper legal proceedings.
Fred Muhumuza, the LC2 Chairperson of Kyafoora Parish, confirmed that the land in question is government-owned. He explained that it was initially designated for grazing but was later repurposed for crop farming around 1992. Muhumuza emphasized that the Muslim group lacks any valid documentation to prove ownership and mentioned that they were advised to formally request land for constructing a mosque instead of making forceful claims. He called on authorities to address the matter promptly, highlighting the land’s significance to residents who rely on it for food and income.
Amanya Ivan Rwanyakibare, the LC3 Chairperson of Rugarama North, reported that the Muslim group claims ownership based on alleged documents from the 1970s under a company called the Equal Opportunities Commission. However, Rwanyakibare dismissed the claims, describing the documents as forged. He urged residents to unite and defend the land, further revealing that the group plans to officially hand over the land to the Muslim community on January 17, 2025.
In response, Kato Majudu, speaking on behalf of the Muslim group, asserted that they possess legitimate documents proving their ownership. He argued that those protesting the claims are merely dependents of the land. Majudu also revealed that the group had proposed sharing the land with residents, an offer that was rejected. He affirmed their intention to take formal ownership of the land as planned on January 17, 2025.
Residents continue to appeal to authorities to intervene and resolve the dispute before tensions escalate further.
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