The Busoga Kingdom is embroiled in a legal dispute after a group of 30 individuals dragged Kyabazinga William Nadiope to the High Court in Kampala, claiming ownership of the land on Igenge Hill, Bugembe Ward, in Jinja North City Division.
This land houses Kyabazinga’s official palace, a multi-billion structure, as well as the International Institute of Technology.
Joseph Muvawala, the Busoga Prime Minister while speaking to media on Monday 18 November 2024, revealed that the claimants are seeking court orders to reclaim the property, which could lead to the demolition of the iconic palace and institute if their claims are upheld.
“The kingdom is prepared to defend its ownership rights over this land,” Dr. Muvawala affirmed, adding that the land belongs to the institution of Isebantu Kyabazinga wa Busoga.
Historically, Igenge Hill holds significant cultural and political importance for the Busoga Kingdom. The land was officially designated as the site for the Kyabazinga’s palace in the early 20th century, serving as a traditional seat of power for the Kyabazinga. It symbolizes the unity of the 11 chiefdoms that make up the Busoga region.
Over the decades, the palace has not only been a residence for the Kyabazinga but also a central venue for cultural ceremonies, royal events, and educational initiatives, such as the establishment of the International Institute of Technology.