Mayiga asks KCCA to preserve Buganda history in Kampala’s development

Katikiro Mayiga shakes hands with KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki. PHOTO/SHABIBAH NAKIRIGYA

The Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom, Charles Peter Mayiga, has asked Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to ensure the city’s rapid development does not erase its historical connection to Buganda.

During their courtesy visit at Bulange Mengo on Wednesday, Katikkiro Mayiga said that Kampala’s identity and history should be reflected in the city’s infrastructure and public spaces, including through a distinctive symbol that tells the story of Kampala and its roots in Buganda.

“KCCA should come up with a symbol related to the Kingdom and the history of Uganda and Kampala,” Mr Mayiga said.

He said Kampala was historically the capital of Buganda before becoming Uganda’s national capital, making its history an important part of the country’s heritage.

He also noted that leadership responsibilities being taken on by the new city authorities come with challenges, but those entrusted with leadership must remain committed to delivering services to the people.

“If you are appointed to take on a certain responsibility, it means that you have to stand on your feet and deliver,” he said.

The Katikkiro Mayiga commended KCCA and the government for upgrading and maintaining roads in Kampala, saying improved infrastructure was a sign of development.

He also welcomed the construction and upgrading of markets, saying the facilities would provide organised spaces where traders can operate.

However, Mr Mayiga cautioned KCCA against implementing the new trade order in a manner that leaves vendors counting losses.

“We support the trade order, but there is a need to stop vendors before they construct their stalls because they cost some money. They need to have recognised places where they can operate from,” he said.

He said street vending and food businesses could become tourist attractions if properly organised and regulated.

“In some cities, street food is a tourist site where people go for adventure, but they are organised and have guidelines they follow,” he said.

Public transport

Mr Mayiga also urged KCCA and the government to prioritise public transport as a way of reducing congestion caused by private vehicles.

He said trains and buses should be treated as a crucial part of Kampala’s transport system because of their capacity to carry large numbers of passengers.

“This will not affect people’s income because more opportunities will be created at every bus station and within the buses,” he said.

He also backed KCCA’s Weyonje campaign and the National Cleaning Day, but noted that the initiatives required adequate preparation.

Mr Mayiga urged the authority to ensure garbage trucks are available during the exercise and provide clear guidelines on how the campaign will be implemented.

“We are ready to work with KCCA, but we need to have clear guidance on how the initiative will be conducted,” he said.

KCCA seeks Kingdom support

KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki said that the authority was committed to strengthening its relationship with Buganda Kingdom because Kampala is located within the Kingdom.

She said KCCA could not implement major reforms in the city without engaging Buganda and its leadership.

“Whatever we are doing, we are in Buganda. We cannot sit at City Hall and not engage with Buganda. Whatever we are doing must be approved by Buganda Kingdom,” Ms Buzeki said.

She added that KCCA had been working with the Kingdom on the new trade order and appreciated the support received from city residents.

“In line with the Trade Order, the authority has planned to upgrade Usafi and Gaba markets to the standard of Busega Market.

She added that KCCA would continue upgrading and maintaining roads in Kampala, particularly in areas where the Kingdom had supported the authority by facilitating access to land and rights of way.

Ms Buzeki also said KCCA had embarked on corporate social responsibility initiatives, including Weyonje and the National Cleaning Day.

She asked the Katikkiro to join and support the campaign.

“We came up with Weyonje and National Cleaning Day, and we request the Katikkiro to join the cause and support the initiative,” she said.

She said KCCA would send the Kingdom a document containing revised rules governing the National Cleaning Day.

Balimwezo pledges cooperation

Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga said his visit to Buganda Kingdom was an opportunity to appreciate the Kabaka for allowing his subjects to participate in politics and public leadership.

Mr Balimwezo said his decision to leave Parliament and contest for the mayoral position was driven by his desire to serve Kampala residents despite the challenges involved.

He said Kampala was the heart of Uganda’s economy and contributes significantly to the country’s revenue, making cooperation between KCCA and Buganda essential.

“We cannot build the Kampala we want unless we engage with the Kingdom for better development and blessings for the betterment of Kampala,” he said.

Mr Balimwezo also said city leaders should be involved in any discussions about relocating the capital or shifting major government functions to other areas.

“The team leading Kampala should be involved in decision-making,” he said.

He said KCCA and Buganda should continue working together to ensure that development projects benefit residents while preserving the city’s history and identity.