KYOTERA, Uganda — A government-backed palm oil project in southern Uganda is facing accusations of land grabbing and forced evictions, leaving thousands of residents without compensation, officials and residents say.
The project, stemming from a 2003 agreement between the Ugandan government and BIDCO Uganda Ltd., aimed to develop 40,200 hectares (about 99,336 acres) for palm oil production. The government was to provide 26,500 hectares, with the remaining 13,500 hectares allocated to smallholder farmers.
However, the project in Sango Bay has been marred by allegations of forced evictions, property destruction and intimidation.
Residents accuse Ignatius Tumwesiga, who claims ties to the first family, of leading the land-grabbing efforts. They allege Tumwesiga, in collaboration with Resident District Commissioner Apollo Tugume and Commissioner of Police Godfrey Maate Bolingo, has used a 2021 presidential directive to justify evictions. The directive allocated 22,028.6 hectares to Bukora Estates Limited and Oil Palm Uganda Limited.
Residents say police officers led by CPL Maate have destroyed farms, plantations and homes, citing the presidential directive. They also allege prisoners were used to destroy plantations and that some residents were arrested and forced to pay bribes for release.
The State House Land Protection Unit has launched an investigation into the disputes.
Evicted residents say they have not received compensation for their land, now used for palm tree plantations. Sango Bay, approximately 247 square miles, was home to about 10,000 residents who relied on farming and livestock.
However, the minister urged the residents to remain patient, assuring them that compensation would be processed soon.
In 2023, the government ordered their eviction to make way for palm tree cultivation, aimed at boosting local production of essential goods. Despite assurances of compensation, many say they have received nothing.
State Minister for Lands Sam Mayanja visited the area to inspect the project’s progress. He urged residents to be patient, assuring them compensation would be processed.
“We have become strangers in our own country. Our complaints are ignored, and when we try to speak up, we are beaten, arrested, and our cattle are taken away,” said Francis Kizza, chairperson of Kyebe Sub-county.
Joseph Kagame, a local councilor, questioned the government’s commitment to compensation.
“We are beginning to wonder whether the compensation will ever come. How long are we supposed to wait?” he asked.
Tumwesiga, head of the palm tree planting project, dismissed the claims, stating most affected residents had been compensated and refuting harassment allegations.
Mayanja instructed RDC Tugume to review compensation lists to ensure all eligible beneficiaries are accounted for.
“We will not allow any false claims. Those who deserve compensation will get it, but anyone found lying about their entitlement will face legal consequences,” Mayanja said.
He urged residents to embrace the project, emphasizing its potential for economic development. The project aims to cultivate 18,000 acres of palm trees, with a large-scale processing plant planned for the region.
Despite the government’s optimism, the plight of displaced residents casts a shadow over the project. Until the compensation issue is resolved, tensions are likely to persist.
