UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | In a bid to secure the land rights of bibanja holders, the State Minister for Lands, Mr Sam Mayanja, called for prayers to protect these land occupants.
Mayanja emphasised the government’s commitment to granting full ownership to bibanja holders, urging the need for land titles to formalise their property rights.
This announcement came during a prayer session for the 14th Nations International Conference at Caring Hearts Community Victory Church in Wakiso District.
Minister Mayanja acknowledged the existing laws aimed at safeguarding bibanja holders but expressed concerns about violations, prompting a call for divine intervention to protect victims of land grabbing.
He highlighted the prolonged struggle, dating back to the 1900 Buganda Agreement, and assured that with President Museveni’s support, victory in this land rights battle was achievable.
Mayanja clarified that bibanja holders enjoy a 70% security of occupancy, with the remaining 30% linked to land titles.
He emphasised the constitutional tenure systems, including Mailo, Freehold, Leasehold, and Customary land, outlining the need for bibanja holders to possess tenure, enabling land ownership vested in them.
The minister revealed forthcoming legislative actions, as per Article 237 (9) of the Constitution, aimed at creating a relationship between landlords and bibanja holders and empowering the latter to obtain land titles.
The nature of compensation, whether by landlords or government acquisition, will be determined by the upcoming laws.
During the prayer session, Pr. Paul Musisi, founder of Caring Hearts Community Victory Church, emphasised the spiritual importance of the conference, bringing together Born Agains from various East African countries and beyond.
He also condemned pastors engaging in land grabbing, denouncing them as “fake” men of God, driven by greed rather than genuine spiritual leadership.
Providing historical context, Minister Mayanja traced the roots of bibanja holders to the 1900 Buganda Agreement, subsequently impacted by Idi Amin’s military rule in 1975.
President Museveni’s ascent to power in 1986 marked a turning point with the formulation of a Constitution, granting people authority over land.
The ongoing 14th Nations International Conference, uniting Born Again believers, commenced on December 3 and is slated to continue until December 10, fostering spiritual unity among participants from East African nations and beyond.
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