Kiboga Land Issue : Kabaka of Buganda vs. Mr. Nsubuga David Over 4 Acres of Land.
The Buganda Kingdom, through the Buganda Land Board (BLB), has been entangled in a contentious land dispute in Kiboga District. The dispute revolves around a 4-acre plot that previously housed the old Kiboga Town Council offices. Although many assumed the land belonged to the Buganda Kingdom, the ongoing conflict between Mr. Nsubuga David and the Kabaka, represented by the BLB, has introduced a surprising twist.
Located in the Buganda Region of Uganda, Kiboga District is predominantly rural, with its headquarters situated approximately 120 km northwest of Kampala.¹ The district’s landscape is traversed by a major highway connecting Kampala to Hoima, Uganda’s petrochemical hub. Amidst this dispute, concerns have been raised about the original ownership of the land and the role of the BLB in representing the Buganda Kingdom’s interests.
History of the Contested Land
The land in question has a rich history dating back to the 1900 Buganda Agreement during Kabaka Chwa II’s reign. Originally, the land belonged to Teera-Sekibaamu Munakulya, who owned a vast 7 square miles. In 1924, Teera leased a portion of this land to private companies for a whopping 94 years. Five years later, in 1929, he generously donated 49 acres to the Buganda Kingdom as a gift to Kabaka Chwa, which was then utilized for essential facilities like a hospital, prison, and administrative offices.
Interestingly, Kiboga District, where this land is located, has been prone to land conflicts. For instance, a report highlighted a disturbing incident in Kalwayo village, Lwamata Sub County, where a family dispute over land led to tragic consequences. Such conflicts underscore the complexities surrounding land ownership and usage in the region.
The history of this land also raises questions about the original ownership and the role of the Buganda Land Board in representing the kingdom’s interests. The fact that Teera leased land to private companies for 94 years suggests a complex web of agreements and interests at play.
The land in question has a rich history. After Teera’s death in 1935, his son Ibrahim Musoke Sekibaamu inherited the land, which was then passed down through generations of the family. This process of inheritance ultimately led to Nsubuga David becoming the rightful owner of the land.
In cases like this, understanding the historical context and lineage of land ownership is crucial in resolving disputes. The concept of land ownership and inheritance can be complex, especially when different parties have competing claims
The family has held title deeds for more than 120 years, and even transferred the titles to Mr. Nsubuga’s son. However, these titles were recently canceled, causing confusion and tension. BLB now claims the land, but Mr. Nsubuga insists it is rightfully his.
Why Are 4 Acres Being Claimed?
The 4 acres under dispute were never part of the 49 acres donated to Kabaka Chwa in 1929. Mr. Nsubuga has documents proving he owns this piece of land.
He questions why the BLB is now claiming it, accusing them of being greedy or attempting to grab land that does not belong to them.
To resolve issues with the town council, Mr. Nsubuga even donated 1 acre to Kiboga Town Council for free, providing them with a land title.
What’s The Reaction from Local Leaders.
Ssalongo Henry Kagali, the mayor of Kiboga Town Council, shared his experience:
“We grew up thinking the land was for Buganda. But when I became mayor, I learned that it actually belongs to Mr. Nsubuga David. BLB is claiming land where the council offices used to be, but Mr. Nsubuga gave 1 acre to the town council for free, with proper documents.”
Despite meetings to settle the matter, the issue remains unresolved. Even government officials like Minister Mayanja have tried to mediate, but no solution has been reached.
A letter from the BLB received by then asking who owns the land, and it was confirmed that Mr. Nsubuga holds the title. However, the conflict continues.
Court Case and Next Steps
The case is now in court, with the next hearing scheduled for November 21, 2024, in Kiboga. Many argue that the BLB has no right to claim the land since ownership must be backed by legal documents, which Mr. Nsubuga has.
Some people believe this is an attempt to ruin the Kabaka’s reputation. They question why the Buganda Kingdom would fight over 4 acres when it already received 49 acres as a gift in 1929.
What’s your opinion on this situation? Do you think the BLB has a right to claim this land, or is this a case of injustice?
Stay tuned for updates as the court case unfolds.
