UGANDA, Mukono | Real Muloodi News | Mukono Church Diocese has revealed it spends UGX 10 million per month on private security firms to protect its properties and projects from alleged land grabbers and violent attacks.
The diocese reports that persistent threats to its land and infrastructure have compelled this costly move, citing a lack of adequate government intervention.
Bishop Enos Kitto highlighted areas heavily affected by land disputes, including Kisowera in Nama Sub-county and Nakanyonyi in Nabbaale Sub-county.
“Despite numerous petitions and arrests, many perpetrators are quickly released, fostering a sense of impunity,” Kitto said during a press briefing.
The diocese has faced a series of violent incidents linked to land disputes. In 2023, lay readers were attacked, and property was damaged at Grover Wilcox School of Mission.
Bishop Kagodo disclosed that his diocese has lost over 200 acres in Nakanyonyi, Nabaale Sub-County; more than 100 acres in Kisowera, Nama Sub-County; seven acres in Kiwumu, Kyampisi Sub-County; and similar cases in Nakifuma.
“We appeal to the government to take decisive action against this type of crime as it significantly impacts our plans and poses a threat to the existence of the church,” he stated.
Students at Nakanyonyi Secondary School were allegedly poisoned, and the Nakanyonyi Cottage Industry was vandalised, with its perimeter wall destroyed and workers assaulted.
Clergy members, such as Rev. Mikka Lukwago, have also been targeted. Lukwago’s car was vandalised, and church properties in Kisowera were damaged.
According to the diocese, these incidents highlight the urgency of systemic reforms to address land disputes comprehensively.
Bishop Kitto urged the government and judiciary to collaborate to ensure justice, protect church properties, and guarantee the safety of clergy and workers.
In a related development, the Mukono Diocese has banned political campaigns in churches before the upcoming election season.
Bishop Kitto emphasised that churches must remain neutral spaces, warning clergy against using the pulpit for political purposes.
“Politicians should seek votes outside church premises,” Kitto said, reaffirming the church’s commitment to maintaining its nonpartisan stance.
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