The Town Physical Planner of Bundibugyo, Mwesige Albert, has threatened to pursue the demolition of an alleged illegal structure valued at UGX2 billion after the developer reportedly failed to comply with several warnings and enforcement notices issued over the construction. The matter involves a developer identified as Rwatoro Adu, who is accused of proceeding with the development without the required development and building permits.
Mwesige said he had exhausted several efforts to have the developer follow the proper procedures but was now considering seeking legal guidance and taking the matter to court. He explained that obtaining a court order could be the next step towards enforcing the law if the developer fails to comply within the required time.
The physical planner expressed concern over what he described as a growing tendency among wealthy developers to disregard physical planning regulations and ignore authorities responsible for controlling construction and development. He warned that financial status should not give anyone the freedom to violate the law or build without the necessary approvals.
According to Mwesige, illegal development can attract significant financial penalties if the responsible individuals are found guilty. He cited a figure of UGX40,000 per square metre in court fines and estimated that a typical plot measuring approximately 460 square metres could attract penalties of nearly UGX18.4 million. However, the actual penalties would depend on the applicable laws and the court’s determination.
He said the enforcement measures were intended to ensure that developers follow the established procedures before starting construction. He emphasised that physical planning regulations are essential for orderly urban growth, proper infrastructure development and the creation of a well-organised business environment.
Mwesige also issued a warning to developers planning to invest in Bundibugyo Town’s Central Business District (CBD), saying the physical planning committee would not approve building plans that fail to meet the town’s planning requirements. He stressed the importance of constructing multi-storey buildings to maximise the limited land available for development.
He explained that Bundibugyo’s geographical landscape presents challenges for urban expansion, making it necessary for the town to focus on vertical rather than horizontal development. According to him, encouraging multi-storey buildings would help the town make better use of its available land while supporting future commercial and economic growth.
The physical planner further argued that Bundibugyo needs to improve its infrastructure and physical planning standards if it is to achieve its ambition of becoming a municipality. He maintained that the transition requires proper roads, organised buildings and compliance with development regulations rather than uncontrolled construction.
Mwesige vowed to continue exposing developers who violate planning laws, regardless of whether they are wealthy or financially disadvantaged. He said the enforcement of regulations should apply equally to everyone and that no developer should be allowed to undermine the authorities responsible for guiding the town’s development.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Bundibugyo’s municipal ambitions, insisting that achieving this goal would require discipline, accountability and cooperation between developers and local authorities. He maintained that the town could only achieve orderly growth if everyone respected the established development procedures.
The planned legal action against the developer highlights the importance of obtaining the necessary permits before undertaking major construction projects. As Bundibugyo continues to pursue its urban development ambitions, the authorities face the challenge of balancing investment opportunities with the need to enforce planning regulations and protect the town’s long-term interests.
