Makerere University is set to begin construction of an Agro-Industrial Park in Banda Sub-county, Kyankwanzi District, following the handover of one square mile of government land from the Ministry of Lands. The initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity and improve rural livelihoods.
The land, part of Ranch 16, was officially handed over by the Minister of State for Lands, Sam Mayanja, to Makerere University Chancellor Dr. Crispus Kiyonga during a community meeting attended by residents, local leaders, and representatives from the Uganda Land Commission.
“This project fulfils the President’s vision of modernising agriculture and improving the lives of Ugandans,” said Minister Mayanja. “We are committed to ensuring that all affected residents are compensated fairly and promptly.”
The one square mile allocated to the university is part of the six-square-mile ranch that President Museveni originally granted to Makerere in 1989. However, delays and resettlement challenges stalled progress for decades. Today, over 50 residents live on the land, many with established homes, farms, and gardens.
Local leaders and residents welcomed the project but stressed the need for transparency and fairness.
“The government must ensure that every person is compensated and given enough time to relocate peacefully,” said Christine Bukenya Sendawula, Woman MP for Kyankwanzi District.
Others urged government to avoid a repeat of past experiences where projects were announced but never implemented, leaving communities in limbo.
The Agro-Industrial Park is expected to:
- Create jobs and stimulate local economic activity.
- Train farmers in modern, technology-driven agricultural practices.
- Provide access to export markets, supporting Uganda’s long-term agricultural transformation goals.
Minister Mayanja emphasized that the project extends beyond Makerere’s institutional interests.
“This is not just a university project. It’s a national development strategy,” he said.
The Ministry of Lands pledged to fast-track resettlement and compensation to ensure construction begins without delay.
