Minister Babalanda Cautions Local Government Leaders over Rampant Land Grabbing

Kyankwanzi, August 21, 2023– The Minister for Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, has issued a stern warning to local government leaders about their potential involvement in exacerbating land grabbing activities that have been plaguing the local population. The caution came during the launch of a 5-day retreat for District Leaders from the Central Region at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi.

The retreat, organized by the Manifesto Implementation Unit-Office of the President, aims to address commitments from the 2021/2026 manifesto and the 2023 Presidential strategic directives and guidelines. Attended by leaders from 27 local governments within the central region, the event seeks to enhance collaboration among local government leaders responsible for implementing government programs.

Hon. Babalanda expressed concerns about rampant land grabbing allegedly facilitated by certain local government leaders and the police. She stressed that such actions have tarnished the reputation of the NRM government in the central region.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Babalanda urged leaders to adopt a multi-faceted approach, including using media platforms like radios to promote government development initiatives. She highlighted the importance of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in wealth creation and poverty alleviation, urging leaders to embrace and effectively manage the program.

Mr. Bashaasha Willis, Director of the Manifesto Implementation Unit at the Office of the President, emphasized the need for collaboration among local government leaders, irrespective of their political affiliations, to ensure optimal service delivery to citizens. Over 80% of service delivery in the country is implemented at the local government level.

Hajji Yunus Kakande, Chief Technical Advisor to the Manifesto Implementation Unit, encouraged leaders to promote government initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga to combat poverty. He dismissed claims that public service delivery would collapse due to the suspension of financing by the World Bank, stating that aid does not guarantee development.

The retreat also witnessed the participation of opposition politicians, highlighting political maturity and the shared responsibility to serve all Ugandans. The central region's pivotal role in Uganda's development, with its significant population and revenue potential, underscored the importance of the event's objectives.

The retreat represents a critical step in addressing land grabbing issues and fostering collaboration among leaders for effective governance and development in the central region.