Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-03-23 14:05:02
Four land titles are missing from the Lands inventory at Mbarara district headquarters, as revealed by the auditor’s report. These missing titles include Kamukuzi land measuring 10 hectares, Unicef land, Kakyeka Stadium land, and Bwizibwera land measuring 110 acres.
David Muhwezi, the chief administrative officer (CAO) of Mbarara district, reported to the district public accounts committee that upon his arrival in Mbarara, he was provided with photocopied land titles. However, upon verification, it was discovered that seven original land titles were missing. Of particular concern is the absence of the land title for the Bwizibwera land, located in Bwizibwera–Rutooma town council, where the district intends to build its headquarters. This land has been encroached upon by the former district chairperson, Fred Ibabaza Kamugira, who obtained a title for an acre of land within it.
Muhwezi also highlighted the encroachment on the land where the current district headquarters in Kamukuzi is situated. He stated that 20 plots out of the original 37 were illegally grabbed and removed from the land title in the system. This situation has made it difficult to obtain a special land title for Kamukuzi.
In terms of accountability, Muhwezi attributed the responsibility for the missing land titles to former chief administrative officer, Edward Kasagara. However, Kasagara has committed to facilitating their recovery and has already paid out Shs 11 million for this purpose.
Herbert Kamugisha, chairperson of the district public accounts committee, directed the CAO to request an investigation into the matter by the anti-corruption unit and the Inspector General of Government (IGG). The committee also recommended acquiring the original land titles and summoning Fred Kamugira to explain how he acquired land within government property. Kamugira should face prosecution for his actions.
The issue of missing land titles and land encroachment poses a significant challenge to the proper management and development of the district. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of government property.
The community in Mbarara town is eagerly awaiting a resolution to these issues to ensure that the district’s resources are used effectively for the benefit of the residents. It is crucial for the authorities to take swift and decisive action to address the missing land titles and hold accountable those responsible for the land encroachment.
Efforts should be made to recover the original land titles and prevent further encroachment on government property. By upholding the rule of law and promoting good governance practices, Mbarara district can work towards sustainable development and prosperity for all its inhabitants.
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