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The retired bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Samuel Balagadde Ssekkadde, has warned youngsters against selling their parents' land following their demise.

"Some families are in the habit of disposing of their parents' land after their parents have died without authorisation," Balagadde said.

Bishop Balagadde made the remarks in his sermon on May 4, 2024, during the final funeral rites of Princess Esther Nantale Nkwanga at Buwongole-Kikakanya village in Buikwe district.

The deceased was the mother of deputy Ssekiboobo of Kyaggwe (Ssekiboobo is the cultural leader of Kyaggwe County) and also the director of St Mary's College Lugazi.

He emphasised, "If they have not given you permission and you lack authority, then it is a very bad idea to attempt to sell your parents' land. We don’t want to come back here when you are in land wrangles after selling your parents' land," he added.

Deputy Ssekiboobo (Kyaggwe sub-county leader), Moses Kiyimba Ssenyonjo welcoming Retired Bishop of Namirembe, Samuel Balagadde Ssekkadde to their home to lead the last funeral service for their late mother Princess Esther Nantale Nkwanga. (Photo by Juliet Lukwago)

Balagadde’s advice stems from numerous cases in Uganda. In rural areas, youth have sold their ancestral land claiming it is the only avenue they have to raise startup capital.

He cautioned the heirs always to be good counsellors and advisors, stating, "Now your children will come to you for advice, make sure that you fulfil your responsibilities."

"Solomon in the Bible asked for wisdom to also do the same; pray to God to help you in these new responsibilities you have received, and you can’t be a good advisor without God’s will," Bishop Ssekadde said.

The event was graced by Deputy Buganda Speaker Ahmed Lwasa, who represented Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, general duties minister Justine Kasule Lumumba, Ssekibobo of Kyaggwe County Vincent Matovu, politicians, and several dignitaries.

Ssekibobo Matovu appreciated the late Nantale for raising her children, one of whom (Ssenyonjo) managed to become prominent in the country.

He cautioned Bannakyaggwe to stop thinking of selling their lands, stating, "Maybe if you decided to 'okukolobozako' to sell a piece of it, let it help you develop the remaining part."

He said it was a pity that vehicles come from as far as Mbarara and other places to sell matooke in Kyaggwe yet they also have land to plant their own.

Meanwhile, Lwasa, before delivering Katikkiro Mayiga’s message, advised families to always get administrators who can guide them on family properties.

The Katikkiro appreciated the late Nantale for raising her children well, stating, "We thank God for the life of Maama Nantale and the good behaviours she taught to her children. She will be remembered for the good things through her children, among them Ssenyonjo.