The proposed relocation of Uganda's Luzira Maximum Prison to Buikwe, endorsed by President Yoweri Museveni, has garnered support from the Commissioner General of Prisons, Mr. Johnson Byabashaija. This development comes after President Museveni approved a proposal put forward by Chinese investor Tian Tang of Tian Tiang Group to transform the Luzira Prison premises into a lavish five-star hotel.
In a letter dated July 10, 2022, addressed to Internal Affairs Minister Gen Kahinda Otafiire, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni disclosed the receipt of Tian Tang Group's proposal, suggesting the redevelopment of Luzira Maximum Prison into a high-end hotel complete with a conference center. The proposal also entails relocating the prison to an alternative site, identified by the government and funded by the investors.
President Museveni's directive to Minister Hon Otafiire mandates the implementation of the proposal, facilitating the relocation of Luzira Prison to a new location and enabling the initiation of construction on the current premises, which will house an International Conference and Commercial Hub Center.
Speaking before the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs chaired by West Budama North East MP Fox Odoi in Parliament, Commissioner General Mr. Johnson Byabashaija highlighted the pressing need for the relocation. He underscored that while the Luzira Prison originally occupied 360 acres, it has now shrunk to 271 acres, necessitating a move to a larger area.
The proposed relocation and redevelopment plan have stirred mixed reactions among the public. Proponents argue that transforming the Luzira premises into a modern hotel and conference center would not only generate revenue but also contribute to the tourism sector's growth. They believe that such a move aligns with the government's vision of attracting foreign investment and boosting economic development.
However, critics express concerns about the potential implications of relocating a prison facility. Questions regarding the welfare of inmates, the feasibility of finding a suitable alternative site, and the socio-economic impact on surrounding communities have been raised.
The debate surrounding the Luzira Prison relocation is expected to continue as stakeholders deliberate on the practicality and implications of the proposed plan. Meanwhile, the government is set to proceed with the necessary steps to facilitate the execution of President Kaguta Museveni's directive, marking a significant development in Uganda's infrastructure and tourism landscape.
Additionally, The land in question was previously owned by the Late Antonio Lutwama Kabogoza, who passed away in 1928. Despite the absence of formal letters of administration for the estate since then, the family and beneficiaries have consented to sell the designated square mile to the Uganda Prisons Service for the relocation project. Given the legal complexities surrounding the processing of letters of administration for old Buganda estates, the family's lawyers have advised that the beneficiaries can proceed with the sale of their interests in the land.
