Lubaga Division has intensified efforts to streamline property tax collection, with Local Council One (LC1) Chairpersons called upon to take a proactive role in advising residents on proper compliance and procedures.
The announcement came during the official launch of Evaluation Court hearings, chaired by lawyer Sam Muyizzi, which are mandated to handle complaints arising from property valuations and tax assessments.
The hearings provide residents an avenue to raise grievances related to property tax.
Lubaga Division comprises 13 parishes and over 900 villages, with nearly every village represented at the launch.
The gathering focused on monitoring revenue collection and addressing systemic bottlenecks, while formally commencing hearings for residents with property tax disputes.
During the session, LC1 Chairpersons and division councillors highlighted several challenges affecting taxpayers, including cases where tenants are allegedly required to pay property tax on rented premises—a practice not supported by law. Concerns were also raised about vacant properties being taxed despite having no occupants.
Chairperson of the Evaluation Court, Sam Muyizzi, emphasized the crucial role of local leaders in ensuring residents understand and follow proper procedures.
“It is your responsibility as LC1 Chairpersons to guide your residents on the proper procedures for paying property tax,” Muyizzi said. He, however, acknowledged operational constraints, noting that his part-time capacity limits the number of cases he can handle within the required timeframe.
Lubaga Division Mayor Mberaze Mawula called on the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to strengthen the court’s operations and expand its reach.
“KCCA should do everything possible to ensure that this court effectively reaches all parishes so that services are brought closer to the people,” Mawula said.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance transparency, resolve tax disputes efficiently, and improve local revenue mobilization within the division.
