Published on 23/09/2024
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has reinforced its commitment to sustainable urban growth by hosting a land management sensitisation session in Lubaga Division.
The well-attended event, led by KCCA’s Head of the Land Management Unit, Nathan Kasule, focused on educating residents, local leaders, and councilors was held at Wankulukuku Zone, Kabowa on Wednesday.
The event is part of KCCA’s broader efforts to promote good land governance in Kampala. The authority is working to align land development with the city’s master plan, prioritizing sustainable land use to prevent chaotic urban expansion and encroachment on public spaces.
“As KCCA, we are dedicated to ensuring that all land developments in Kampala are legal and in line with the city’s master plan,” Kasule stated. “Proper land management is crucial to achieving orderly urban growth, and we urge all residents to comply with the legal frameworks in place.”
During the session, Kasule emphasized the critical need for due diligence when handling land transactions, urging residents to avoid making uninformed purchases and relying solely on local leaders.
“Relying on a chairperson’s word is not enough. Protect yourself by consulting legal professionals and always keeping your land titles secure,” he said.
The sensitization program tackled key issues like fraudulent land sales and illegal construction, with Kasule stressing the importance of adhering to zoning regulations to avoid penalties.
“Ignorance of the law is no defense,” he warned, explaining that unauthorized construction in restricted zones such as road reserves could lead to demolitions.
Residents were also given a detailed overview of Kampala’s land tenure system, covering freehold, leasehold, and customary land ownership, each with its own legal obligations.
Kasule underscored the importance of understanding the complexities of these systems, saying, “Land buyers must educate themselves on the legalities to avoid risks and losses.”
Ssempogo Ali, the LCI Chairperson of Wankulukuku Zone, echoed the need for more public education on land rights and transactions, highlighting that many people fall prey to fraud due to a lack of knowledge.
“KCCA must continue its efforts to educate the public, ensuring everyone knows their rights and responsibilities when acquiring land,” he said.
Through such sensitization programs, KCCA aims to reduce the frequency of land disputes and illegal developments in Kampala.
