Buliisa: The Buliisa district leaders and the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom Prince are up in arms over ownership of land in Biiso Sub County.
A 76-year-old Prince Kintu Samuel Gafabusa claims ownership of approximately 19,433 hectares of land in the villages of Kalegeija, Bubwe, and Kitigo.
This land is part of the Budongo Forest Reserve and falls under the jurisdiction of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
Prince Kintu asserts that his late father, Sir Tito Owiny IV, granted him this land, which was previously used as a hunting ground.
On Monday, June 17, 2024, local leaders and stakeholders convened at Biiso Primary School Playground to address the dispute.
Representatives from the Ministry of Lands, the National Forestry Authority (NFA), UWA, lawyers, and community members participated in the meeting.
Gilbert Tibasiima, the Buliisa district vice chairperson, challenged Prince Kintu to provide evidence supporting his claim.
Tibasiima accused Prince Kintu of forging district land board minutes to secure the land.
Buliisa District Woman MP, Norah Bigirwa, emphasized the need for documented proof of ownership.
However, Prince Kintu maintained that he possessed relevant documents but did not have them with him during the meeting.
Allan Atugonza, the Member of Parliament representing Buliisa County, assured affected residents that they would not face eviction from the disputed land.
Fredrick Wanyama, a representative from UWA, stated that demarcating the boundaries will determine ownership.
‘’By assessing the specific location within the park and forest, it will be established whether Prince Kintu’s claim aligns with the demarcated boundaries.’’
Aldon Walukamba, Communications and Public Relations Manager at NFA, said that the NFA has clear and well-demarcated boundaries.
He is optimistic that this effort will lead to a conclusive resolution and alleviate concerns for the people of Buliisa.
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