By Obed Kithende
A total of 1,648 Internally Displaced Persons at Muhokya IDP Camp in Kasese District are set to mark six years on May 7, 2026, still living in temporary shelters and awaiting permanent resettlement despite a directive from Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.
Camp chairperson Rehema Aryema says the situation has worsened with the return of heavy rains, forcing many residents to spend nights in buildings at Muhokya Town Council after their tarpaulin shelters deteriorated.
The displacement dates back to May 7, 2020, when floods from Rivers Nyamwamba, Nyamuwasana, and Lhubiriha devastated areas including Nyamwamba Division, Bwera-Mpondwe, Maliba, and Bugoye.
Victims were initially sheltered at Kanyangeya Primary School for seven months before being relocated by the Office of the Prime Minister to Muhokya Camp on December 18, 2020, where they remain to date.
Although government reportedly released over Shs 2 billion to acquire 2,000 acres of land in Bwenanule-Kinyabakazi for resettlement, the process stalled after disputes emerged, with local leaders contesting the land transaction.
LC1 Chairperson Lawrence Bwambale says he never signed any agreement approving the land purchase, a development that has delayed relocation efforts.
Living conditions in the camp remain dire, with over 1,600 people sharing just five mobile toilets, raising serious hygiene concerns. Residents report that recent rains have destroyed several makeshift structures.
Kasese District LCV Chairperson Eriphazi Muhindi Bukombi has urged government to secure a legitimate piece of land to facilitate permanent resettlement.
Camp leaders say access to land would allow them to rebuild their lives through farming, reducing dependence on relief aid.
