There are claims that top officials at the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) orchestrated a fraudulent land deal that could cost the government billions and devastate protected forestland.
The controversy involves the alleged illegal acquisition of 230 acres of National Forestry Authority (NFA) land in Buto-Buvuma, highlighting Uganda’s ongoing struggle against corruption.
In a complaint submitted to Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG) Ann Muhairwe Twinomugisha in February 2025, whistleblower Mukalazi John Paul, an accountant with SDG Group International, accuses several high-ranking officials of collusion.
Among those named are KCCA’s new executive director, Legal Director Frank Rusa, Deputy Solicitor General Charles Ouma, and others.
Mukalazi alleges they facilitated the acquisition of the land for waste management purposes despite warnings that it was both environmentally unsuitable and illegally titled.
Key Allegations
Fraudulent Land Titles: Private landowners Luwaga Derrick and Luberenga George Mike are accused of fraudulently obtaining titles to the forest reserve land.
NFA and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) had warned KCCA about environmental risks and legal ownership concerns.
Collusion and Bribery: Mukalazi claims bribes totaling over UGX 5 billion were promised to officials, including the deputy solicitor general and KCCA executives, to push the deal through.
Ignoring Warnings: KCCA allegedly proceeded with the transaction despite clear warnings from NFA and NEMA, rejecting a free 50-acre alternative in favor of the 230-acre contested land.
Environmental and Financial Risks: The deal threatens a key forest ecosystem, which serves as a crucial catchment area, and exposes the government to significant financial losses.
Dispute, Responses
The controversy centers on the alleged involvement of private landowners Luwaga Derrick and Luberenga George Mike, who reportedly obtained fraudulent titles to the forest reserve land.
Mukalazi’s complaint includes documents indicating that NFA urged Commissioner for Lands Baker to cancel these titles.
However, KCCA pressed ahead with the acquisition, despite the Solicitor General refusing to sign off on the contract due to legal irregularities.
Former KCCA acting executive director and current Legal Director Frank Rusa defended the transaction, stating that the authority conducted due diligence before acquiring the land.
He claimed any ownership disputes had been resolved in court, with rulings favoring the current proprietors over NFA. The dispute has heightened tensions between government agencies.
While NFA expresses concerns over the environmental impact and legality of the land titles, KCCA argues that the transaction was necessary to address Kampala’s waste management crisis.
Broader Implications
The case highlights Uganda’s widespread problem of fraudulent land transactions. In 2024 alone, NFA reported 703 cases of illegal titles in forest reserves.
The IGG’s inaction since November 2024 raises concerns about oversight and transparency. Mukalazi’s threat to escalate the matter to the president and media reflects growing frustration over unchecked corruption.
Background
The Buto-Buvuma land, a critical catchment area, is emblematic of the challenges in protecting Uganda’s natural resources from fraudulent land acquisitions.
Mukalazi questions why KCCA ignored NFA’s warnings, why Deputy Solicitor General Ouma cleared the deal despite evidence of fraud, and why Commissioner Baker has delayed action.
He also alleges that Luwaga paid UGX 30 million to dismiss a related court case, further complicating the matter.
Mukalazi’s complaint reflects urgency and frustration. He accuses the deputy IGG of inaction, warning that silence enables “government land theft” by officials prioritizing personal gain.
Social media outrage, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), has amplified calls for accountability, with many Ugandans condemning systemic corruption.
Proposed Solutions
The IGG should summon and investigate all accused officials to ensure transparency and accountability. Interdicting KCCA officials could prevent evidence tampering.
A thorough audit of the deal’s approvals and processes is necessary to uncover any irregularities. The Commissioner for Lands should clarify delays in resolving the issue.
Long-term solutions include digitising land records to curb fraudulent titles and strengthening inter-agency oversight to protect public assets.
Increased media coverage and civil society engagement can pressure authorities to act and deter future corruption.
As Uganda grapples with corruption’s impact on governance and environmental conservation, this case serves as a crucial test for the IGG’s resolve.
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