The State Minister for Local Government, Justine Nameere, has pledged to support efforts aimed at ensuring that the Buganda Kingdom receives outstanding rent arrears owed by the central government for the use of kingdom properties.
The arrears, accumulated over several years from government occupation of Buganda-owned buildings and land, are estimated to exceed Shs 300 billion.
For years, local governments—particularly in central Uganda—have operated from buildings and land belonging to the Buganda Kingdom. The kingdom has repeatedly demanded payment of the arrears, arguing that the prolonged delay has affected some of its activities and development plans.
Nameere made the commitment while paying a courtesy visit to the Pokino of Buddu, Jude Muleke, as part of her introduction to kingdom leaders following her appointment as State Minister for Local Government.
“We cannot continue to ignore obligations owed to the Buganda Kingdom. I will engage the relevant authorities and ensure that this matter receives the attention it deserves,” Nameere said.
The Pokino welcomed the minister’s commitment, noting that several kingdom programmes have been affected by the continued occupation of Buganda properties without settlement of the outstanding obligations.
“Some of our activities have been affected because government institutions continue to occupy kingdom properties while the outstanding rent remains unpaid,” the Pokino said.
Nameere further pledged to raise the matter with President Yoweri Museveni and follow it up to seek a lasting resolution.
“I will present this issue to the President and continue following it up until a lasting solution is found,” she added.
The Pokino commended Nameere for her efforts in the fight against corruption, describing the campaign as key to strengthening accountability and good governance.
“Fighting corruption is important, but we must also address the challenges that push some people into corrupt practices if we are to achieve lasting change,” he said.
During the visit, Nameere donated Shs 6 million towards Buddu County’s preparations for the upcoming Buganda Masaza Cup tournament.
“As leaders, we must support sports because they unite our people and provide opportunities for young talent to grow,” Nameere noted.
The Pokino thanked the minister for the contribution and appealed to well-wishers to support the county’s campaign.
“We are going through a difficult period financially, and we call upon all friends of Buddu to support the team as we prepare for the Masaza Cup,” he said.