By Flavia Ajok
Residents and leaders in the sub-counties of Buhimba and Bugambe have expressed concern over unknown individuals flying drones and using GPS devices on people’s land, raising suspicions of potential land grabbing.
Led by Buhaguzi East Member of Parliament Stephen Aseera, they are urging the government to expedite the process of issuing the 22,000 land titles promised to local people at a subsidized cost.
They warn that continued delays will allow unscrupulous individuals to exploit the situation.
Francis Kisoro Nyaika, the local council chairperson for Kazinga Kaina in Buhimba sub-county, reported that unfamiliar individuals have been spotted in the area operating drone cameras and GPS machines.
He fears these could be land grabbers adding that since oil and gas was discovered in Kikuube district, the threats to land has increased.
Robert Muhumuza Mpanimanya, the Buhimba town council mayor, echoed these concerns and called for government intervention. He noted that some residents are losing sleep over the situation.
Muhumuza says they have seen numerous evictions in Kikuube and other parts of Bunyoro. When unfamiliar individuals arrive with drones and do not communicate with local leaders, it understandably worries our people.
Stephen Aseera, the Buhaguzi East legislator has called on the public to remain vigilant and take action against individuals flying drones.
Aseera says they received reports of people driving along roads while drones are in the air, without explaining their presence to locals or leaders.
Aseera also reiterated the need for the Ministry of Lands to expedite the processing of land titles.
