local news 13 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Namutumba Border Dispute Sparks Tension Among Residents
A contentious border shift in Namutumba Town Council has led to over 300 residents petitioning local leaders, fearing escalating violence over a 500-meter territorial alteration. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/tension-mounts-in-namutumba-over-500-metre-border-dispute-5557316
Residents of Itonko Village in Namutumba Town Council are expressing deep concern and warning of potential conflict due to a recently altered village boundary. Over 300 villagers have lodged a petition with local authorities, highlighting a dispute that centers on a nearly 500-meter shift of the border between Itonko Village and Namutumba Zone B.
The core of the disagreement lies in the historical demarcation of the boundary, which has long been recognized as the Iganga–Tirinyi–Mbale Highway. Petitioners argue that this established line has been unilaterally moved, encroaching significantly into Itonko Village. This reclassification has reportedly placed several key institutions and private properties under Namutumba Zone B.
Among the affected entities are the Namutumba Town Council headquarters, Namutumba Health Centre III, and Namutumba Modern Islamic Primary School. Private land, including that owned by Dr. Fred Kasiisa, has also been impacted by this boundary change.
Community members and former local leaders argue that the highway served as the definitive border long before Namutumba District was established in 2006. They question the legitimacy of the new boundary, citing a lack of consultation with Itonko Village authorities. Concerns have also been raised about potential compensation issues for landowners in Nakidudura Zone.
Mr. Kabi Nabongho, the LCII chairperson for South Ward, has voiced alarm over the apparent lack of transparency and the substantial encroachment indicated on the town council’s updated map. He suggested the boundary shift might be intended to hinder Itonko Village’s development rather than improve administrative services.
However, Ms. Grace Mugabe, LCI chairperson for Namutumba Zone B, stated that the boundary changes are a natural consequence of the district’s and town council’s creation. She affirmed that according to the official Namutumba Town Council map, the disputed facilities fall within Namutumba Zone B.
Namutumba Town Council chairperson, Mr. Sudasi Mushega, has urged for calm and emphasized that the council is following official cartography guidelines from the Ministry of Local Government. He assured residents that the matter would be addressed through official channels, prioritizing community welfare.