news 27 August 2026 Nile Post

Mpigi Halts Sand Mining in Kituntu Amidst Road Damage and Resident Outcry

Mpigi District has suspended all sand mining activities in Kituntu Sub-county, citing severe road damage, excessive dust, and reckless driving by sand transporters. The decision follows sustained complaints from local residents and a protest aimed at halting the destructive operations. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/367060/mpigi-bans-sand-mining-in-kituntu-over-road-damage-residents-complaints

Mpigi District authorities have taken a decisive step by suspending sand mining operations in Kituntu Sub-county and blocking roads used by heavy sand trucks. This action comes after persistent complaints from residents about the devastating impact of the mining activities on local infrastructure and their daily lives.

District Chairperson Simon Peter Kawuki expressed frustration with sand miners who, he alleged, are exploiting the area’s natural resources without adequate compensation or contribution to road maintenance. The continuous movement of large Sinotruk trucks carrying sand has left district roads in a deplorable state, exacerbating dust pollution that affects homes, businesses, and general well-being.

Residents have voiced their distress, describing unbearable dust conditions that soil belongings and compromise hygiene. They also pointed to reckless driving by truck operators, which has led to accidents involving animals and even schoolchildren. A protest at Bukasa Trading Centre saw residents blocking roads to physically halt the trucks, demanding immediate intervention.

Kawuki stated that the district is not benefiting sufficiently from the lucrative sand mining, despite the extensive damage. He noted that the miners have refused requests to contribute to road repairs, such as providing murram. The district chairman lamented that local roads are destroyed almost as quickly as they are repaired.

The decision to close the roads is effective immediately, with Kawuki challenging the miners to find alternative transport methods like planes or boats. Sand mining will only be permitted to resume once miners engage with district authorities to agree on operational conditions, including taxation. This move aims to ensure that the community benefits from resource extraction and that environmental and infrastructural damages are addressed.

Kituntu, despite its significant sand deposits, reportedly generates minimal taxes for the district compared to other sub-counties, further fueling the demand for a fairer system. Several loaded trucks were observed leaving the area following the announcement.