Bugisu Leaders Face Backlash Over Shs18 Million Landslide Resettlement Package

Communities across the Bugisu sub-region are raising concerns over the government’s newly introduced Shs18 million landslide resettlement package. While the intervention aims to protect families from dangerous mudslides on the slopes of Mount Elgon, strict conditions requiring residents to demolish their homes, harvest their crops, and surrender their private land to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) have sparked widespread backlash.

For generations, families living in high-risk zones have cultivated fertile soils and established valuable coffee plantations. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja defended the relocation directive, explaining that the Shs18 million is compassionate support rather than direct property compensation, intended to help households start afresh in safer locations before the December 30 deadline.

However, local leaders and residents argue that the mandatory surrender of private land and fast-tracked timelines overlook vital economic investments. Namisindwa District Chairperson Ema Bwayo questioned the legal and administrative basis of transferring non-park-adjacent land directly to UWA, suggesting it should first go through district land boards. Meanwhile, parliamentarians have urged the government to separate life-saving evacuations from complex land ownership disputes. Read more details in the original report on Nile Post.