Kampala, (UG):– In a groundbreaking move aimed at empowering Kibanja/Bibanja holders across the Buganda Kingdom, Opportunity Bank Uganda Limited and the Buganda Land Board (BLB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to help landholders obtain legal Certificates of Title for the land they occupy.
The new partnership, unveiled Thursday, November 14, 2024, in Kampala marks a significant step towards enhancing land security for thousands of Ugandans as it seeks to provide these landholders with greater financial security, growth opportunities, and increased access to financial services offered by the bank.
Under this MOU, Bibanja holders will be able to gain access to financial services and resources, helping them secure legal ownership of their land and improve their livelihoods.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Owen Amanya, CEO of Opportunity Bank Uganda, expressed gratitude to Buganda Land Board for the unending partnership which has helped many occupants secure rightful ownership and status on their land.
“We are happy to deepen our partnership with Buganda Land Board and continue our shared mission of empowering landholders through secure land titles,” Mr Amanya said, adding; “This partnership will provide not only the financial resources but also the confidence that Bibanja holders need to develop their land and improve their livelihoods.”
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Owen Amanya, CEO of Opportunity Bank Uganda, expressed gratitude to Buganda Land Board for the unending partnership which has helped many occupants secure rightful ownership and status on their land.
“We are happy to deepen our partnership with Buganda Land Board and continue our shared mission of empowering landholders through secure land titles,” Mr Amanya said, adding; “This partnership will provide not only the financial resources but also the confidence that Bibanja holders need to develop their land and improve their livelihoods.”
Mr. Simon Kabogoza, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Buganda Land Board, shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the significance of the partnership for the community. “This agreement is an important step towards ensuring that Bibanja holders can secure legal rights to their land, unlocking financial opportunities and personal development,” he stated.
The partnership sets out a clear framework for both institutions to work together. BLB will play a crucial role in identifying eligible Bibanja holders and forwarding their applications to Opportunity Bank, which will then provide the necessary financial support for them to obtain title certificates.
The Buganda Land Board will also oversee the entire titling process, ensuring that the required certificates are issued promptly and efficiently. Through this initiative, Bibanja holders will be able to enhance their financial security, gain access to credit, and open up new pathways for growth.
With this new collaboration, both Opportunity Bank Uganda and Buganda Land Board are working towards making a lasting impact on the economic empowerment of Uganda’s landholders. By providing them with the tools and resources they need to secure land titles, the partnership is set to contribute to the country’s broader goals of financial inclusion and sustainable development.
