Nicholas A
Residents of Kaberebere village in Nyakabare parish, Rukoni West, Ntungamo District are urging authorities to reconsider the demolition of their trading center.
They claim that the demolition, which occurred on December 30, 2022, was based on misleading information provided by some local leaders. In September 2022, these leaders informed residents that the government intended to construct a Health Center II in the area, prompting them to vacate the premises.
To their dismay, the promised health facility was never built, and instead, all buildings in Kaberebere, including businesses, were demolished.
Gaston Mubangizi, a resident who owned a business in the trading center, stated that since the demolition, their income has significantly decreased, affecting their ability to cover essential needs such as school fees and daily expenses. He added that residents now have to travel long distances to the towns of Kitwe and Nyakyera to obtain necessary items.
Gaston mentioned that despite raising the issue for a long time, authorities have yet to address their concerns. Elias Byensi, the LC 1 Chairperson for Kaberebere village, said they have repeatedly sought permission to rebuild their shops, but have received no response, leaving their area devoid of business activities.
Residents are calling for the reestablishment of the trading center to address the lack of local business and the inconvenience of traveling long distances for everyday items.
Frank Mwiru, the LC 3 Chairperson, explained that initially, the health facility was to be built somewhere in Rukoni West Sub County. However, Kaberebere was deemed too small for the facility, which was eventually relocated to Kyentaama Parish, where there was adequate land.
Mwiru stated that efforts are being made to help residents rebuild their town, but they are facing opposition from some local leaders who are against the idea of re-establishing the trading center.
