Agriculture Ministry Investigates Alleged Fraud in Sembabule Ranch Land Allocation

The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) is scrutinizing a controversial land deal involving Ranch 25 in Sembabule District. Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze wrote to Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba on March 24, requesting an investigation into the alleged fraudulent titling of this government ranch without MAAIF’s approval.

Ranch 25, spanning about 5 square miles in Kakinga Village, was provided for a goat breeding initiative. In 2013, it was allocated to Paul Sembeguya of Sembabuya Estates (U) Limited via a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost local goat multiplication and exports. The MoU was renewed in 2015 and 2020, set to expire in 2025, with the land remaining under government oversight.

Concerns have mounted over deviations from the project’s goals, including renting out portions to settlers and improper titling as private property by the Masaka Land Office. MAAIF has formed a technical committee, led by its undersecretary, to examine current land use and has urged Sembeguya to cooperate.

Sembeguya dismissed the allegations, asserting his compliance with multiple MoUs and contributions benefiting farmers across districts like Wakiso, Nakasongola, and Nakaseke. He claims ownership of separate land bought in 1998 and attributes disputes to new stakeholder interests. He is prepared to present evidence to investigators.

Minister Nabakooba confirmed receipt of the letter and pledged a thorough probe to uphold guidelines and curb illegalities. Land disputes over former government ranches are prevalent in Sembabule.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)