Makerere University permitted to use Kyankwanzi square mile plot after 36-year delay

KYANKWANZI - After a 36-year delay, Makerere University has finally secured permission to utilise its one-square-mile plot in Kyankwanzi district’s Banda sub-county, allocated in 1989 for an agro-industrial park focused on agricultural innovation and training. 

The land was officially handed over by lands state minister Dr Sam Mayanja to university chancellor Dr Crispus Kiyonga, during a ceremony attended by area leaders. The development marks a step toward fulfilling the dream of transforming the site into a world-class agricultural hub.

The land, promised by the President in 1989 for modern facilities in animal husbandry and agriculture, had remained unused until now. 

“It’s unfortunate that 30 years ago, the President directed that this land be given to Makerere to develop into a world-class institution, but nothing was done,” Mayanja said, urging immediate action, instructing the demarcation of boundaries and deployment of security personnel to protect the site while compensation negotiations proceed.

Residents’ concerns and compromise

Before the handover, local residents led by LC3 chairperson Peter Kabatangare protested, demanding the process be delayed until after the 2026 General Elections. 

However, after a tense meeting at the sub-county headquarters, residents agreed to demarcation and clarified the land’s location. 

Mayanja urged co-operation: We agreed to demarcate boundaries and count current occupants for proper compensation so Makerere can start using the land.

A vision for progress

Kiyonga expressed gratitude for the breakthrough: Starting next month, you’ll see progress in this project that will bring hope to residents and Uganda as a whole.” 

He outlined plans to create an agro-industrial park aimed at boosting food security, combating malnutrition and generating income. The initiative will create 210 direct jobs and over 1,000 indirect opportunities, he added.

Kiyonga assured squatters on the land would be “relocated peacefully” and pledged fair compensation. He called on local leaders to compile a list of genuine occupants to ensure transparency: “No one should be harassed during this process.”

Lands Commission’s role

Chairperson Prof. Pen Nyeko Mogi, a veterinary expert, praised local leaders for supporting the Government’s land-use plan. 

He emphasised the project’s potential to improve animal husbandry and dairy production: This initiative will benefit both leaders and their constituents.

Kyankwanzi district chairperson Dr John Mpuuga confirmed residents would be kept informed and affirmed local leaders’ satisfaction with the process.

The project aligns with Makerere’s mission to bridge academic training and practical agricultural development. 

As demarcation begins, the university aims to turn the long-idle land into a model for innovation.