Wakiso seals UGX 43.8 billion deal to redevelop central and Kawuku markets

WAKISO, Uganda — A major milestone has been achieved in the transformation of trade infrastructure in Wakiso District following the official signing of multi-billion shilling contracts for the construction of selected modern markets.

In a ceremony marked by optimism and commitment to service delivery, the Procuring and Disposing Entity formally sealed agreements with contractors to execute the construction works under two major lots: Wakiso Central Daily Market and Kawuku Market.

This development signals the government’s continued commitment to strengthening local economies, empowering vendors and modernizing trading spaces across the region. Engineer Lilian Namutebi demystified the distribution of funds and the details of the contract, explaining that the scale of investment reflects the seriousness of the project.

For consultancy services, the entity shall pay a contract price of 2,273,000,000 Ugandan shillings excluding VAT, or 2,682,140,000 shillings inclusive of VAT. For the actual construction works, the figures rise significantly.

Lot 2, which covers the construction of Wakiso Central Market, is valued at 23,991,574,461 shillings inclusive of VAT and 20,331,842,764 shillings exclusive of VAT. Lot 1, for the construction of Kawuku Market, is priced at 19,804,960,441 shillings inclusive of VAT and 16,783,864,781 shillings exclusive of VAT.

The construction of these markets is expected to improve hygiene and sanitation standards, provide organized stalls and storage facilities, enhance safety for traders and customers, boost local revenue collection and stimulate small and medium enterprises. For decades, market vendors have operated in challenging conditions. With these new modern facilities, traders will have safer, cleaner and more organized environments to grow their businesses.

The agreement clearly states: “In this Agreement, words and expressions shall have the same meanings as are respectively assigned to them in the Contract referred to. The Agreement shall prevail over all other Contract documents.”

This clause reinforces the legal framework governing the execution, completion and remedying of any defects within the works to ensure accountability and performance.

Wakiso and Mpigi districts continue to position themselves as fast-growing economic hubs. The modernization of markets is a strategic move that aligns with broader national development goals of industrialization, urban planning and poverty alleviation.