BY SAM KACHOPE
Residents of Kisongora cell, Busambu ward in Muhokya Town Council, Kasese District have raised an alarm over what they describe as rampant cases of land grabbing and illegal use of community land by the Banyakisongora Farmers’ Association.
The residents especially Christopher Kazini claim that land approximately 1,500 acres traditionally used for grazing and settlement was leased out by the association without their consent, with an alleged long-term aim of dispossessing them of their ancestral land.
According to several members of the community including Seth Katunda, the leaders of Banyakisongora Farmers’ Association have turned part of the contested land into a dumping site for human waste and a source of murram, which is being excavated and sold for construction purposes.
As for Sam Kusemererwa, these activities have not only degraded the environment but also deepened fears that the association’s leaders intend to evict them from the land they have occupied for many years.
Jackline Katusiime and Alfred Kiryango, both residents in the same area are calling upon the government and relevant authorities to urgently intervene before the situation escalates into an open conflict.
However, in response to the allegations, the L C 1 Chairperson for Kisongora Village, Mr. Leonard Musabe dismissed claims of land grabbing in the area, saying that the complaining few individuals have their personal interests.
He further disclosed that the sale of murram from the land was a decision agreed upon by the leadership of the Banyakisongora Farmers’ Association as a way of raising income for the group.
As tensions continue to escalate, observers say the dispute highlights ongoing land conflicts in Kasese District and Rwenzori region, often linked to unclear land ownership, weak consultation processes and alleged misuse of community resources.The District leaders have asked the residents to calm down as investigationsin this matter continue so that a solution is reached and the conflict is resolved. ENDS