The Minister of Kampala Betty Kamya accompanied with KCCA officials embarked on a tour of the City to identify idle land that could be used to establish Youth Projects. The sites visited included areas in Luzira, Coffee Marketing Board Premise, and land that was opposite Uganda Batteries Limited that Gen. James Mugira claimed ownership. Mugira was the Managing Director of National Enterprise Corporation, the business arm of the UPDF. “We have never given land to the army in Bugolobi, now they have to sit with the government to harmonize the transaction.” “And the politicians should not confuse this with Gikwateko effort because as you know, you journalists we have been at this long before Togikwateko was an issue. We came with you about four or five months ago and looked at these premises. So now, we are going around for the second time because we got information which we would like to verify, that’s all which is about. No one is going to be evicted, we are looking for available space for the President to provide workplaces for the young people.” Said, Betty Kamya – Minister for Kampala.
The youth who encountered Kamya at Bugolobi market requested for compensation if they were to leave the land. “If they want us to leave, they should pay us a substantial amount.” “The idea of them coming and taking away what they want is not good. Now they have brought the army and the Police.” While at Kiswa market, tempers flared when the Minister without Portfolio Abdul Naduli rebuked a journalist who asked whether the pressure to find land was prompted by the age limit amendment. Officials later visited Kiswa Primary School, the Youth Center in Bugolobi and Lusozi Cemetery where they found a newly built house. “I have ordered this officer to dismantle the illegal structures.”
Hillary Musoke the Secretary to the President of Youth Affairs said resolving youth unemployment was a key government priority. “Today we are here to identify different government land where the President can put his own initiatives like the carpenters, metal fabricators, welders, and mechanics etc.” Said, Hillary Musoke – Secretary to the President of youth Affairs.
