By Gerald Niyirinda
Tension is mounting in Kisoro and Rubanda districts following concerns over the planned acquisition of land for iron ore mining, with Bukimbiri Member of Parliament Hon. Eddie Kwizera calling for clarity and respect for affected communities.
In a letter dated March 11, 2026, addressed to the Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, the legislator expressed concern over what he described as inconsistencies and lack of clear information regarding the targeted areas for land acquisition.
The letter, issued under the letterhead of the Parliament of Uganda, references earlier communication from the ministry regarding the forceful acquisition of land in the two districts for iron ore mining.
Hon. Kwizera acknowledged the government’s policy aimed at promoting industrialisation through mineral exploitation, noting that he supports efforts to mine and process iron ore in line with national development goals. However, he stressed the need for the process to be conducted within the provisions of the Constitution, the Land Act, and the Mining Act.
“As the people’s representative, I find it necessary to raise concerns that may contribute to the proper and lawful acquisition of land without disorganising or displacing communities,” he stated.
The MP highlighted confusion in the identification of specific villages mentioned in the ministry’s communication. He clarified that villages such as Kijuguta and Kigyeyo were incorrectly placed under certain sub-counties.
According to Kwizera, the two villages are located in Nyanamo Town Council in Bukimbiri County, Kisoro District—not in Muko Sub-county in Rubanda District or Bukimbiri Sub-county as earlier indicated.
He urged the Ministry to provide accurate geographical details and ensure proper consultation with affected residents to avoid tension and possible conflict.
Mining licenses that have not been terminated
The legislator reveals that several villages under Nyanamo Town Council are already covered by active mining licenses that have not been terminated. The licensed entities include Great Lakes Iron and Steel Co. Ltd, Blue Steel Co. Ltd, Sino Minerals Co. Ltd, and the Bukimbiri Artisanal Miners Association.
Hon. Kwizera raises alarm over alleged non-compliance with the Mining Act by some license holders, noting that many landowners have not received compensation or mineral royalties despite ongoing mining activities. He further highlights environmental concerns, including increasing soil erosion and disruption of clean water sources in affected areas.
The MP also questions the clarity surrounding the proposed land acquisition, particularly the 640 acres reportedly targeted. He insists that government must clearly define the boundaries, disclose the investors involved, and fully assess the impact on local communities. According to him, affected residents deserve to understand the extent of displacement, the cultural implications, and where those displaced will be resettled.
He notes that land ownership in the area is complex, with some residents holding freehold titles while others have already sold surface rights to investors under existing agreements. This, he says, creates potential legal and contractual conflicts, especially where companies have already secured mining licenses and entered agreements with communities.
Hon. Kwizera is now calling for an urgent multi-stakeholder meeting involving licensed miners, the Ministry of Minerals, regulatory bodies such as NEMA and CGV, local leaders, and community representatives. The meeting, he argues, is necessary to establish facts on the ground and guide any government decision regarding land acquisition.
He also disputes claims that 2,000 people will be affected, describing the figure as unclear and unrealistic. Instead, he urges authorities to conduct a proper assessment to determine the exact number of affected families and the corresponding land size for compensation. He adds that not all land in the area contains iron ore deposits and warns that public institutions such as churches and schools could also be impacted.
Additionally, the MP reveals that several complaints have been submitted to the Ministry regarding individuals allegedly obtaining mining licenses without the consent of landowners.
Hon Kwizera said people have lost land, gardens and soil erosion is evident. He added this has affected the work services and peoples’ incomes, the area being an agricultural area.
“The Government should advise the investor to adhere the provisions of mining and minerals act as amended”, part of the letter reads
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