UGANDA, Nakasongola | Real Muloodi News | The Isabaruuli of Buruuli Chiefdom, Isabarabrongo Mutyansozi Mwogezi Butamanya, has urged the government to address the ongoing Nakasongola land conflicts that have left many residents displaced and in difficult conditions. He appealed during his 20th coronation anniversary on December 10, 2024, at Kaalemere Ka Nyamusumba Palace in Nakasongola Town Council.
The eight-square-mile Kyarubanga Forest Reserve, spanning Lwabiyata, Nabiswera, Wabinyonyi, and Lwampanga sub-counties, has been a focal point of disputes involving longstanding settlers, newer occupants, and those evicted from the land.
In 2019, President Yoweri Museveni directed the degazettement of the reserve to resettle displaced households. However, the resettlement process has exacerbated tensions. Over 500 families were already residing on the land, but the district resettled more than 1,000 additional individuals, including those displaced from Kasagala Forest Reserve and victims of the Lake Kyoga floods.
State Minister for Lands Sam Mayanja has visited the area multiple times to address the issues, but conflicts persist. Alleged acts of violence, mistrust, and displacement continue to plague the region, with residents seeking a resolution.
“Many of our people have been injured or jailed unfairly due to these conflicts. I implore President Museveni to personally intervene and ensure a lasting solution before Nakasongola attains industrial city status,” Isabaruuli stated.
Isabaruuli commended the government’s economic initiatives such as Emyooga and the Parish Development Model, which he said have improved the livelihoods of his people. However, he called for increased financial support to cultural institutions, emphasizing their role in promoting unity and fostering development.
The Chiefdom’s Premier, Samuel Kasirye, noted efforts to restore the environment in the region. “We are focusing on replanting trees cut by charcoal makers to combat the increasing aridity of the land,” Kasirye said.
Kasirye also reiterated the Chiefdom’s commitment to maintaining sovereignty in the face of challenges from other kingdoms.
District LC5 Chairperson Sam Kigula highlighted cultural advancements made over two decades, including the widespread adoption of the Luruuli language.
Representing the central government, Nakasongola Constituency MP Noah Mutebi Wanzara praised government support, including a monthly USh60 million allowance for the Chiefdom and a pledge of Shs. 4 billion for headquarters construction. Mutebi also urged expedited efforts to grant Nakasongola city status by July 2025, as promised.
The anniversary, held under the theme “Unity in Diversity for Social Cohesion,” drew cultural leaders from across Uganda and beyond, including delegates from Bugwe, Teso, Ankole, Lugbara, Bwamba, and Ghana’s King of Gomoa Odumase, HRH Akomanyi Nana Essandah.
As Buruuli Chiefdom marks two decades of leadership under Isabaruuli Mwogezi, addressing the Nakasongola land conflicts and prioritizing unity, cultural preservation, and sustainable development remain central to its mission.
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