Tension Rises in Kisoro and Rubanda Over Planned Iron Ore Mining Land Acquisition

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 a lack of clear information regarding the targeted areas for land acquisition.

The letter, issued under the Parliament of Uganda letterhead, references earlier communication from the ministry regarding the proposed 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 that the process must comply with the Constitution, the Land Act, and the Mining Act.

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 potential conflict.

The legislator also stated 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 raised concerns 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 also highlighted environmental concerns, including increased soil erosion and disruption of clean water sources in affected areas.

The MP questioned the clarity surrounding the proposed land acquisition, particularly the reported 640 acres targeted for acquisition. He insisted that government must clearly define boundaries, disclose the investors involved, and fully assess the impact on local communities. He said affected residents deserve clarity on displacement, cultural implications, and resettlement plans.

He noted 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 said, creates potential legal and contractual conflicts, especially where companies have already secured mining licenses and entered agreements with communities.

Hon. Kwizera called for an urgent multi-stakeholder meeting involving licensed miners, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, regulatory bodies such as NEMA and the Office of the Government Valuer, local leaders, and community representatives. He said the meeting is necessary to establish facts on the ground and guide any government decision on land acquisition.

He also disputed claims that 2,000 people will be affected, describing the figure as unclear and unrealistic. Instead, he urged authorities to conduct a proper assessment to determine the exact number of affected families and the size of land required for compensation. He added that not all land in the area contains iron ore deposits and warned that public institutions such as churches and schools could also be affected.

Additionally, the MP said several complaints have been submitted to the ministry regarding individuals allegedly obtaining mining licenses without the consent of landowners.

Hon. Kwizera further noted that residents have lost land and gardens, with soil erosion worsening in the area, affecting agricultural productivity and livelihoods.