BY JOACKIM KULE
A private survey sanctioned by residents of Nyakabingo II Ward in Central Division has revealed that Kilembe Mines Limited owns a total of 200 acres of land in the areas of Katadoba and Kihalimu.
The survey conducted by Mr. Francis Kithulha Mugisa and Mr. Philly Masereka indicated that Kilembe Mines Limited owns blocks M14 and M30 which accommodate a total of 1400 plots of land.
During a community meeting at Mulongoti Primary School in Kasese town last evening, Mr. Philly Masereka one of the surveyors said steps are now underway to establish the number of people and the property worth on the said land.
Mr. Julius Rukara, the Chairperson of an association of the affected persons says people have stayed on the land for a long period of time.
According to Rukara, when the survey is complete, a comprehensive report will be compiled and subsequently use it to negotiate with government to find a way of salvaging the affected persons.
Mr. Wilson Kiiza, one of the area Local Council Chairpersons says it is important that the matter resolved amicably since the land in question has so many people settled on it.
Kasese Deputy RDC in-charge of Busongora County, Mr. Zepher Mubingwa said negotiations with central government have already commenced with an intention to allow people settle on the land.
The development comes after the high court sitting in Fort Portal ruled that the land in Nyakabingo Ward belongs to Kilembe Mines Limited following a protracted legal battle between the mining company and Muheka family who claim to have originally ownedthe land.
The Retired Bishop of South Rwenzori Rt Rev Jackson Nzerebende Thembo noted that Kasese district has been grappling with a lot of land conflicts and thus it is important that care is taken when handling land matters in Kasese district.
ENDS