KAMPALA, Uganda — Energo, a prominent Ugandan construction company, is facing intense scrutiny over its alleged forceful occupation of disputed land belonging to a vulnerable family in Kigogwa, Gobe, Wakiso District. The family of the late Temiteo Mutawonga claims Energo has consistently defied a High Court restraining order, prompting widespread outrage and calls for government intervention.
The disputed land, valued at UGX 8 billion, has been at the center of a protracted legal battle between Energo and Mutawonga’s daughters, Annet Kalanzi Mpiima and Nakangu Mirabu Ssebuliba. The family alleges that Energo illegally occupied the land after it was fraudulently leased by a relative.
“We’ve been denied access to our own land, and now the company is defying the very court order meant to protect us,” Annet Kalanzi Mpiima lamented.
Energo’s actions have sparked concerns among local authorities, with area LC1 chairman Joseph Ssenkumba warning that the situation threatens to escalate further if the company continues to disregard the law.
“This isn’t just about the land anymore; it’s about respect for the law,” Ssenkumba emphasized.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has previously urged Resident District Commissioners to combat land grabbing cases, which have risen despite government efforts to protect citizens. The events have raised questions about the effectiveness of these measures.
As tensions rise, the family and local community await further action from authorities. The incident has also drawn attention to Energo’s business practices, with reports of similar disputes in other regions.
The High Court’s restraining order, delivered by Kasangati DPC Moses Karakire Musinguzi, explicitly bars Energo from further activities on the disputed land until the matter is resolved.
Energo’s defiance has led to accusations of impunity and disregard for the rule of law. The company’s offer of a paltry Shillings 100 to the family, described as “take it or leave it,” has further inflamed tensions.
With the dispute showing no signs of resolution, concerns about land rights and corporate accountability continue to grow in Uganda.
