By Joseph Kiggundu  & Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L. H. D. (Hon.) Updated at 1850 EAT on Wednesday 1st April 2026

Former Vice President Gilbert Bukenya has called for a comprehensive investigation into the disputed ownership of land within the Buto-Buvuma Forest Reserve, questioning how private individuals could claim rights over what is designated as government property.

Bukenya raised the concern after meeting more than 30 local leaders who visited his home in Buwanuka, Kakiri Sub-county. The leaders reported that residents cultivating portions of the forest are facing eviction, despite allegedly operating under authorization from the National Forest Authority (NFA).

According to Buvuma Forest Coordinator Jonathan Ssempala, the evictions are being carried out by businessman David Deric Luwaga, who claims ownership of the reserve. Ssempala explained that the NFA had issued renewable leases of up to 30 years to local residents as part of efforts to promote tree planting and sustainable forest management.

He noted that more than 4,000 people have been benefiting from the arrangement, but many now face uncertainty following Luwaga’s actions, which have disrupted ongoing forestry activities.
Bukenya dismissed claims of private ownership over a forest reserve, insisting that such land remains under government control.

He argued that any individual holding a land title under such circumstances should be subjected to legal scrutiny. He also pledged to raise the matter with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to ensure proper investigations and accountability.

While commending residents for their reforestation efforts, Bukenya encouraged them to prioritize indigenous tree species over eucalyptus, citing their greater environmental and medicinal benefits.
Local leader Tony Mateega further alleged that part of the disputed land had been sold to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and is currently being used as a dumping site.

In response, Luwaga maintained that he legally owns approximately 27,000 acres of the land, claiming he won a court case against the NFA. He added that he has compensated several occupants, although some have declined to vacate.

However, Aldon Walukamba, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Water and Environment, stated that the forest—estimated at about four square miles—remains under dispute in court. He advised affected residents to formally petition the ministry’s Permanent Secretary.

Walukamba further asserted that Luwaga does not legally own the forest reserve and accused him of unlawfully selling part of the land to KCCA.