The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) conducted a land management sensitization session in Makindye Division aimed at addressing the numerous land issues plaguing the community.
The session, led by Nathan Kasule, head of the KCCA Land Management Unit, took place at Katabira Zone in Nsambya Central Parish and attracted a significant turnout of local residents, area leaders, and councilors.
Many locals expressed confusion regarding the complex tenure system in Kampala, prompting the team to provide a comprehensive overview of the different land tenure systems, including freehold, leasehold, and customary tenure, and the legal implications of each.
“We decided to go to all divisions to bring our services closer to the community,” Kasule stated. “Next week, we will be heading to Naguru as part of our ongoing efforts to address land wrangles in Kampala.”
The initiative reflects KCCA’s commitment to engaging with residents directly, fostering a deeper understanding of land management processes, and ensuring accessible services across all divisions. Similarly, this aligns with the NRM government’s belief in promoting good land governance through the protection of land rights, aiming to safeguard against unlawful land evictions and promote sustainable land use practices.
The session also addressed critical concerns regarding physical planning and encroachment on public land. Kasule educated the attendees on KCCA’s critical mandate concerning land management and urban development in Kampala. He noted that KCCA is tasked with urban planning and development control, involving zoning, land use planning, and ensuring that all developments align with the city’s master plan and regulatory framework. Such planning is crucial for preventing haphazard growth and ensuring that the city’s infrastructure can accommodate its residents and businesses effectively.
In addition to planning, KCCA manages public lands within Kampala, including parks and open spaces. This management ensures these areas are utilized appropriately and protected from encroachment or misuse, preserving them for public use and environmental sustainability. A significant part of KCCA’s responsibilities includes the approval of building plans and the issuance of construction permits. By conducting thorough inspections and ensuring adherence to building codes, KCCA plays a vital role in maintaining construction standards and safety within the city.
Property registration and business licensing also fall under KCCA’s purview. By handling these processes, KCCA helps maintain accurate records of property ownership and land usage. This function is critical for legal clarity and the smooth operation of the real estate market. Environmental management is another crucial aspect of KCCA’s mandate. The authority ensures that land use practices are sustainable and do not negatively impact the environment. This responsibility includes promoting green spaces and mitigating the effects of urbanization on the natural landscape.
KCCA is responsible for the development and maintenance of essential infrastructure, including roads, drainage systems, and public facilities, which often require land acquisition and careful management. By fostering awareness and providing residents with the knowledge needed to navigate land management processes effectively, KCCA aims to mitigate the numerous land disputes in Kampala.
Kasule highlighted the challenges KCCA faces in managing public land and the rampant issue of unauthorized occupation. He underscored the importance of adhering to zoning regulations and urban planning guidelines to prevent haphazard development and preserve essential public spaces. Kasule emphasized the necessity for residents to engage with the Kampala District Land Board and the KCCA for all land-related services. He explained the role of the Uganda Land Commission in land management and the procedures for obtaining and verifying land titles.
The community’s active participation in these sessions is crucial for the success of KCCA’s efforts to create a well-organized and dispute-free Kampala.