In astrategic move aimed to resolve escalating land disputes in Kampala,Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the Buganda Land Board (BLB) have pledged to reinforce their partnership to address challenges in land management, physical planning, and development control across the city.
Land disputes in Uganda are a widespread issue driven by population pressures, boundary uncertainties, and fraudulent land titles.
The commitment was made during a high-level meeting at City Hall, attended by KCCA Deputy Executive Director Benon Kigenyi and a BLB delegation led by Prince David Wasajja, the Kabaka’s Attorney, Denis Kabogoza, BLB’s Chief Executive Officer, and Bashir Kizito, Deputy CEO.
Kigenyi described the relationship between the two institutions as “symbiotic,” emphasizing that it has allowed several city development initiatives to progress smoothly.
“We recognize that several city government properties sit on land belonging to the Buganda Land Board, and there have not been any major disputes. This shows that our institutions have maintained a cordial and cooperative relationship,” Kigenyi said.
He said collaboration with BLB is essential for effective land management and proper urban planning, especially given the increasing pressure on Kampala’s land.
The Buganda Land Board (BLB) is one of the largest land managers in Kampala, administering vast amounts of kingdom, official Mailo, and public land across the city. They hold the overall head title and issue secure leasehold titles (often for 49 years) to customary tenants (kibanja holders)
“People occupying Kabaka land often fear to approach the rightful owners for documentation, and that’s why many end up building illegally. We want to work hand-in-hand with BLB to find a lasting solution,” Kigenyi said.
He stressed that land acquisition challenges for infrastructure projects remain a key hurdle resulting into delays and inflated costs.
Prince Wasajja welcomed the engagement, calling it “long overdue” and crucial for coordinating land management efforts.
“Almost 50 percent of the land in Kampala belongs to the Kabaka. We are a major stakeholder and want to establish a special working relationship with KCCA,” he said. “If we work together, we can address issues such as illegal construction, waste management, and unplanned development more effectively.”
BLB Chief Executive Officer Denis Kabogoza praised KCCA’s initiative, noting that stronger communication channels will enhance land administration.
“KCCA has shown goodwill, and it’s only right that we build on that. We should establish clear communication channels and work together where necessary,” Kabogoza said.
Bashir Kizito BLB Deputy CEO emphasized the importance of regulating development on Kabaka land.
“Many people build without approved plans. We want to work with KCCA to ensure that all developments on Kabaka land are legal and compliant,” Kizito said.
Both institutions agreed to establish a framework for cooperation that will harmonize land management, improve development approvals, and guide sustainable urban growth.
“We want a situation where we can deliver this city with precision,” Kigenyi said.
