Uganda Scouts Association Unveils Multi-billion Projects

---

Summary:

• The Uganda Scouts Association has initiated transformative projects at the Kaazi National Camping Grounds to end their dependency on donations, including the construction of a Ugx 5 billion Serena Heights facility and a Ugx 7 billion sports arena, aiming to generate income and thwart land encroachment.

---

On November 30, 2023, the Uganda Scouts Association hosted a tour for journalists to showcase ongoing projects at the Kaazi National Camping Grounds. The initiative aims to put an end to the persistent culture of begging within the Scouts fraternity, a practice that has endured for many years.

Barugahale Mujuni Patrick, the Head of the Uganda Scouts Association Board of Trustees, explained that the association has allocated 10 acres out of the 100-acre Kaazi National Camping Grounds for two significant projects. This decision was made in line with the association’s commitment to developing a portion of the land and utilizing its resources more effectively.

Mr. Mujuni emphasized the association’s shift towards self-sufficiency, stating, “We want to use what we have to get what we want.” Historically reliant on donations and constant fundraising efforts, the Scouts now seek to end their dependence on external support. The idle land is envisioned to become a source of income while simultaneously serving as a venue for camping activities.

Among the ongoing projects is the Serena Heights venture, a 3-story building estimated at Ugx 5 billion. This structure will house hotel facilities, conference rooms, and serve as the headquarters for the Uganda Scouts Association. Additionally, the Ugx 7 billion sports arena is under construction, featuring a football pitch with a seating capacity of fifty thousand, along with facilities for table tennis, volleyball, netball, and more.

Mr. Mujuni addressed concerns about the development’s motives, clarifying that the projects are aimed at transforming idle land into income-generating assets. The initiative also aims to protect the land from encroachment, which has been a persistent issue for the Scouts fraternity. The development has already proven successful in deterring encroachers, with the President contributing to their efforts by providing a perimeter wall.

The Kaazi National Camping Ground, a 120-acre plot donated to the Scouts fraternity by the late King Daudi Cwa II a century ago, comes with the condition that after 100 years, 20 acres must be reimbursed to the Daudi Cwa family. The association has fulfilled this condition, dispelling misconceptions that the projects are driven by personal interests rather than the development of their own property.