Uganda Investment Authority Cracks Down on Non-Performing Investors Over Idle Land

The Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) has intensified efforts to repossess government land from non-performing beneficiaries who have failed to meet development obligations.

UIA Director General Robert Mukiza informed the Parliament Committee on Finance, Planning and Economic Development that the authority has already issued withdrawal notices to defaulting investors. While acknowledging that some affected individuals have appealed the decisions, Mukiza maintained a firm stance on the crackdown.

Lawmakers during the Friday session voiced strong concerns that certain individuals acquire government land without the financial or technical capacity to develop it. Instead of establishing promised projects, some beneficiaries have reportedly resorted to subletting the property to generate personal income.

Hon. Faith Nakut urged the UIA to implement stricter entry standards for foreign investors, including clear exit timelines for businesses that fail to materialize. Other legislators questioned why land offered for industrial parks remains undeveloped and criticized delays in securing official land titles for these properties amidst broader concerns over land grabbing.

Despite these challenges, Mukiza highlighted several positive milestones achieved by the authority. He reported that investments valued at US$1.161 billion were registered during the 2025/2026 financial year, creating over 34,000 jobs. Furthermore, the UIA has invested Shs8.1 billion to help domestic traders transition into manufacturing.

Read the full report on the Parliament of Uganda.