Residents of Kasanje Town Council in Wakiso District are calling on the government to expedite compensation for their land, earmarked by the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority (UFZEPA) for a major industrial park.
Locals report being unable to develop their properties due to prolonged delays in the compensation process, which has also stalled a multi-billion-shilling project aimed at boosting Uganda’s agro-export sector.
UFZEPA officials recently met with affected residents to address acquisition concerns and conducted an oversight visit to a newly constructed, state-of-the-art export facility near the airport, led by new board members.
Fred Jachan Omach, Chairperson of UFZEPA’s Board of Directors, revealed that 109 acres of land have been slated for development.
“We are awaiting court guidance on the compensation process to ensure the land is developed promptly,” Omach stated.
The land, acquired by the government in 2018, has faced setbacks after locals raised concerns, with authorities directed to resolve issues related to squatters who remain uncompensated.
Hez Kimoomi Alinda, UFZEPA’s Executive Director, announced that development will commence early next year. He noted that while most affected residents have been compensated, 30 individuals are still awaiting payment.
Kasanje Town Council Mayor, Zinda Jonathan Gayiira, disclosed that they had written to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Ramathan Ggoobi, urging urgent intervention.
“Fortunately, the Attorney General has stepped in, directing the Ministry and UFZEPA to swiftly compensate all affected locals and proceed with development,” Gayiira said.
Residents have welcomed the initiative, which promises to create jobs and spur income-generating opportunities in the area.