By Sekaggya Seka Moses
The Ugandan government has come under fire for allocating 150 acres of the Kitubulu Central Forest Reserve in Entebbe to Chinese billionaire Paul Zhang, the mastermind behind the contentious Luzira Prison hotel proposal.
The deal, reportedly worth $500 million, will see Zhang’s Tian Tang Group develop a mega government complex, five-star hotel, hospital, and shopping mall within the protected forest land.
State Minister for Investment Evelyn Anite defended the move, stating that it’s part of a broader plan to establish an “alternative capital city” in Entebbe, which will help decongest Kampala.
However, critics argue that the government is “auctioning off” Uganda’s green heritage to Chinese interests, sparking concerns about environmental degradation and the impact on local communities.
Entebbe Mayor Fabrice Rululinda has vowed to block the project, citing concerns about the destruction of the forest and the potential consequences for the environment and local residents.
Environmentalists also warn that clearing Kitubulu could worsen flooding, accelerate wetland degradation, and undermine Uganda’s international environmental commitments.
The controversy surrounding this deal has sparked a heated debate about the balance between economic development and environmental conservation in Uganda.
While the government insists that the project will bring in foreign investment and create jobs, critics argue that the long-term costs to the environment and local communities far outweigh any potential benefits.
It’s worth noting that Paul Zhang’s company, Tian Tang Group, has been involved in other high-profile projects in Uganda, including the Sino-Mbale Industrial Park and the Mukono Industrial Zone.
However, the allocation of Kitubulu forest land to a foreign investor has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to protecting Uganda’s natural resources.
Have An Advert Or Article You Want Us To Publish? Whatsapp: +256786288379 or email binocularugnews@gmail.com
