Residents of Kyagunda village in Bukulula sub-county, Kalungu District, have expressed frustration over the damage caused by the Chinese engineered stone quarrying in the area.
The locals argue that the operations of a China Construction Company have caused significant damage to their properties, including homes and livestock, without any compensation being offered for the destruction, which has led to the destruction of houses and injuries to animals, leaving over 90 families affected.
The LCI Chairman of Kyagunda village, Richard Kiwanuka, stated that numerous complaints had been lodged with local authorities regarding these issues.
However, no assistance has been provided despite numerous attempts to address this issue, which has intensified the anger towards this Chinese construction company.
Kiwanuka added that residents are concerned about the structural stability of their homes, many of which now exhibit cracks, and also the noise pollution from the quarrying operations has also been linked to adverse health effects among pregnant women in the community.
’’Many women and domestic animals in the community are experiencing complications during childbirth, attributed to the stress and noise pollution from this quarry, and this needs to be addressed urgently,’’ Kiwanuka said.
One of the local residents Vincent Ssekitoleko, criticized the Chinese company of disrespect and mistreatment of the villagers, comparing it unfavorably to previous contractors who compensated residents fairly for damages.
Ssekitoleko said that the current company is not only neglecting its responsibilities but also violating the rights of those affected.
’’The previous contractor, Arab Contractors, compensated locals for damages caused during their operations; however, with the current contractors, the situation is so terrible and a bitter pill in the locals’ mouths,’’ Ssekitoleko stated.
He, then called upon the government to intervene into the matter with a lot at stake and the locals are threatening to take action soon.
Additionally, residents added that more than seven toilets had collapsed as a result of the severe dynamite blasts used during stone extraction, and this has forced them to dig shallow pit latrines, which pose health risks, especially during the rainy season.
The ongoing situation in Kyagunda village in Bukulula sub-county underscores a growing tension between local communities and foreign investors engaged in resource extraction.
As residents continue to seek justice and adequate compensation for their losses, it remains crucial for both local authorities and the government to address these grievances effectively to restore trust and ensure the well-being of affected families.
