Mbarara, Uganda – A joint operation by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and State House operatives on Sunday night thwarted an alleged attempt to illegally clear part of the Kamukuzi Hill Forest Reserve in Mbarara City, land managed by the National Forestry Authority (NFA).
The group reportedly used live ammunition to disperse individuals believed to have been hired by tycoon Hassan Basajabalaba. A makeshift iron-sheet structure erected at the site was dismantled, and several unidentified individuals were arrested.
The incident is allegedly linked to the ongoing expansion of the Kampala International University (KIU) Heart Institute in Rwebikoona, with the disputed land said to be part of the targeted area for development.
Didas Tabaro, the Mbarara District Chairman, clarified that the land does not fall under the jurisdiction of the district but is instead managed by the NFA.
“I want to clarify that the land in question does not fall under the jurisdiction of Mbarara District. It is actually under the management of the National Forestry Authority. This distinction is important because it means the district has no authority to allocate or title that land,” said Tabaro.
He further expressed concern over how a private individual had allegedly acquired a land title and subsequently sold the public land to Basajabalaba. He has directed the district staff surveyor to retrieve the land file and investigate how the title was issued.
Herbert Kamugisha, Chairman of the Mbarara District NRM, echoed Tabaro’s sentiments, questioning the legality of acquiring public land and calling on State House to launch a full investigation.
When contacted, Rwizi Region Police spokesperson SP Samson Kasasira confirmed the incident and noted that investigations are ongoing.
