By BM
Makerere University has expressed its full readiness to begin immediate development of a newly handed-over one square mile of land in Banda Sub county, Kyankwanzi District, following a formal handover by the Government of Uganda.
During the ceremony, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, Chancellor of Makerere University, affirmed that the university is not only prepared but eager to begin utilizing the land, which will host an extension of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB).
“We are already procuring two tractors. We are lining up staff to come and effectively occupy this place,” Dr. Kiyonga announced, emphasizing that Makerere is taking swift steps to operationalize the site. “This is not just talk. We are going to start using the land immediately.”
Dr. Kiyonga also revealed that security arrangements are in motion, including the establishment of a police post on the site. “From the point of view of security, we are covered. Just in case there are people with other ideas, we are taking no chances,” he noted.
The project is part of Makerere’s broader strategy to decentralize and expand its academic and research infrastructure to meet national development goals—particularly in the livestock and veterinary sectors, which are crucial to the cattle corridor region.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta reaffirmed the university leadership’s commitment to executing the project in line with government directives.
The Vice Chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, currently on duty abroad, has been credited with reviving a long-standing presidential directive from as far back as 1989.
Professor Pen-Mogi Nyeko, Chairperson of the Uganda Land Commission, echoed Makerere’s commitment and commended the University for Finally taking up the land after years of dormancy. “This land should have been taken a long time ago and developed,” he said. “But this Vice Chancellor has taken interest, and Makerere is now ready to deliver.”
Professor Nyeko emphasized that the local community stands to benefit directly through improved veterinary services, livestock research, and job creation. “You are very lucky,” he told residents. “Veterinary doctors from Makerere will help improve the value of your livestock. Your milk and meat will meet international standards.”
The Uganda Land Commission plans to open the boundaries and process a new title in its name, with Makerere University as the designated user.
As Makerere sets in motion its development plans, the land is expected to transform into a hub of innovation and service delivery for livestock farmers across the region, delivering both academic and economic value. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
