The State Minister for Lands, Dr. Sam Mayanja, has issued a stern warning to land grabbers who have encroached on government land, hindering development projects. The minister made these remarks while inspecting Gunda Forest Land in Katabi, Wakiso District, where he is overseeing the implementation of President Museveni’s directive to allocate the land for the construction of a National Technological Demonstration Center.
In January 2023, President Museveni directed Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to allocate the Gunda Forest Land in Katabi, Wakiso District, for the establishment of a National Technological Demonstration Center to promote science and technology. However, the president’s directive has not been implemented due to the discovery that the land had been illegally allocated to private individuals, prompting the minister to intervene.
Today, Dr. Sam Mayanja, accompanied by Phiona Barungi, the Presidential Assistant on Land Matters, visited the site and instructed Eng. Sheeba Kyobutungi from State House to commence the construction process. The minister emphasized that the land grabbers’ actions have delayed the project, which is critical for national development.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Entebbe, Hakim Kirigwa, revealed that the land has been a subject of contention since 2017. The area chairperson, Tebesigwa Isma, also appealed to the minister to address the issue of land grabbers who have illegally occupied the land.
Eng. Sheeba Kyobutungi and other officials informed the minister that the land is suitable for the proposed project. They outlined plans to build a science and technology hub, including educational institutions, a hospital, and other facilities. However, they noted that the project has been stalled due to the lack of a valid land title, which the minister assured them is now available.
President Museveni had earlier allocated 57 billion shillings for the construction of the science and technology hub, but the project could not proceed due to the land dispute. Dr. Mayanja reiterated that the government is now in full control of the land and will ensure the project moves forward.
Phiona Barungi, the Presidential Assistant, and Dr. Hirry Kisanja, who were also present, pledged to work closely with government officials to expedite the development process.
Eng. Sheeba Kyobutungi is now tasked with commencing the construction work. He expressed optimism that the project will create numerous opportunities for youth in the field of science and technology, now that the land is securely in the government’s hands.
