Mukono Residents Live in Fear Amidst Rampant Land Grabbing by 'Abafakinyi'

Villagers in Mukono District, particularly in Nama and Nakisunga sub-counties, are experiencing escalating fear as a group allegedly operating under the moniker ‘Abafakinyi’ is accused of forcibly seizing land. Residents report instances of violence, intimidation, and theft by individuals associated with this group, with some victims claiming to have suffered serious injuries. The alleged land grabbers are said to target vacant properties, including those belonging to Ugandans living abroad or individuals who infrequently visit their land.

Community leaders and victims have voiced their concerns, stating that despite reporting these incidents to local authorities, the police, and the Resident District Commissioner’s office, lasting solutions remain elusive. The situation is exacerbated by rising land values and rapid urbanization in Mukono, contributing to a broader land crisis.

Victims describe tactics such as forging land titles, manipulating records, and using armed individuals to evict occupants. In some cases, structures are erected on disputed land without the consent of the registered owners. Even religious and public institutions have not been spared, with allegations of encroachment on church and school properties, disrupting their activities.

One resident recounted a brutal nighttime attack for refusing to surrender a small piece of land, resulting in severe injuries requiring hospitalization. Youth leader Emmanuel Ssekyanzi corroborated these accounts, noting that many residents have lost land, and even religious and educational institutions have been affected. The community is appealing for more decisive action from the government and judiciary to expedite land disputes, strengthen area land committees, and ensure thorough verification of land transactions to protect vulnerable landowners.