UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | A longstanding land dispute between the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and a family claiming ownership rights over Muzzanganda, a former foundation associated with Nakivubo Settlement Primary School, has resulted in a significant decline in pupil enrollment at the school.
A member of the School Management Committee (SMC), speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that pupil enrollment at the government-aided school has plummeted from approximately 300 learners in 2023 to around 200 this year.
The ongoing conflict has instilled uncertainty among parents, prompting them to seek alternative schooling options for their children.
The conflict has also deterred potential donors from supporting the school’s development initiatives. Donors who previously showed interest in renovating dilapidated classrooms withdrew their support upon learning about the land dispute, further exacerbating the school’s challenges.
Nakivubo Settlement Primary School, situated adjacent to Owino Market in Kampala’s city centre, occupies approximately 4 acres of prime land.
According to Salim Uhuru, the Mayor of Kampala Central Division, KCCA asserts ownership of the property, stating that compensation was provided to the Muzzanganda Foundation when the government took over the school’s management.
Uhuru emphasised KCCA’s plans to renovate the school and establish a skilling centre on the premises. He highlighted the need for comprehensive redevelopment, citing the current state of the school grounds, which are host to various commercial activities, including restaurants, stores, lodges, and parking spaces.
Prosper Rwamasaka, Manager of Education Services at KCCA, acknowledged the adverse effects of the land conflict on the school’s operations. He revealed that a head teacher recently resigned due to threats stemming from the dispute.
Rwamasaka expressed optimism about resolving the issue, citing assurances from the registrar of companies regarding ownership verification.
Charles Maginot, acting director of Education and Social Services at KCCA, elaborated on the historical context of the conflict, noting discrepancies between the registered Muzzanganda foundation and the claimants asserting ownership. The matter is currently subject to litigation, with hopes for a resolution shortly.
Meanwhile, Mustafa, claiming to be the Chairperson of the Muzzanganda Foundation, maintains that their faction holds legitimate ownership rights over the land and the school.
They express intentions to reclaim management control, renovate the school, and increase enrollment.
Documentation submitted to KCCA in 2011 by the Muzzanganda faction provides insight into the school’s establishment and its subsequent transfer to KCCA.
The report outlines the property’s leasing history and highlights the complexities surrounding its ownership.
Erias Lukwago, the Lord Mayor of Kampala, raised concerns about the broader trend of public schools losing land to encroachers, implicating certain city tycoons in land-grabbing activities.
Lukwago stressed the importance of concerted efforts to safeguard public school properties, particularly for low-income urban residents.
As the dispute over Nakivubo Settlement Primary School’s land ownership persists, stakeholders continue to navigate legal proceedings and advocacy efforts to ensure the school’s stability and uphold the rights of its students and staff amidst challenging circumstances.
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