‘Hands-off Our School Land’
Tensions are rising in the Juba Hill community as the administration, teachers, parents, and pupils of Services Secondary School intensify their protest against what they describe as the “encroachment and illegal occupation” of their school land by Lor Restaurant.
According to concerned stakeholders, Lor Restaurant, owned by businessman Shalima has allegedly extended his structures and activities onto land reserved for the school’s future expansion.
Residents and community leaders say the issue has been simmering for months, but recent construction activities have sparked renewed anger and calls for immediate government intervention.
Speaking to journalists, a senior staff member of the school said the land grab threatens the learning environment and the safety of the pupils.
“We want to make it clear: Hands off our school land,” the senior staff member stated adding that: “This property belongs to the Services School, and no business interest should override the educational needs of our children.”
Parents and guardians in the Juba Hill community have also expressed frustration, accusing the restaurant of using its influence to unlawfully claim public educational property.
Many say they are ready to stage peaceful protests if authorities fail to act.
“We cannot sit by and watch private businesses take over land meant for our children,” said one parent. “We are calling on the Ministry of Lands, the Ministry of Education, and the security forces to investigate this matter urgently.”
Community youth groups have joined the campaign, vowing to protect the school’s interest. They insist the land in question has been part of the school for decades and should remain so.
Despite the mounting accusations, Lor Restaurant has yet to make a public statement responding to the claims.
For now, Juba Hill remains tense as residents await the government’s next move.
But one thing is clear: the Services School community is united in its message: “Hands off our school land.”
