Govt Advances Greater Kampala Development Plan

Authorities are rolling out a comprehensive physical development plan for the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, prioritising structured urban growth, climate resilience, improved connectivity, and a stronger role for the private sector in shaping the city’s future.

The government is moving forward with a comprehensive plan to guide the growth and organisation of the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA), with officials emphasising structured urban development, climate responsiveness, and increased private sector participation.

Vincent Byendaimira, Director of Physical Planning at City Hall, said the new Kampala Physical Development Plan recognises that different parts of the city serve different purposes and will therefore be developed under varying standards.

This, he noted, is critical in managing the complexity of a rapidly expanding urban centre.

He explained that urban growth is inevitable, whether planned or not, but the development plan seeks to organise and guide what takes place across the metropolitan area.

Much of the implementation, he added, will be driven by the private sector, positioning government as a regulator and facilitator.

Byendaimira stressed the importance of inclusive planning,

noting that communities must be actively involved in shaping developments that affect them. While acknowledging that change may be disruptive, he said such transformation must be understood and accepted by the public to ensure sustainable outcomes.

Progress is already underway in key areas. The Kyengera–Busega secondary centre has been planned, with local engagement ongoing, while planning for the Nakawa Secondary Centre is expected to commence at the start of the next financial year.

At the policy level, the Kampala Physical Development Plan has been presented to Cabinet, which has requested clearer articulation of its financial requirements.

Engagements with the Ministry of Finance are already ongoing to address funding considerations.

Environmental sustainability is also a central pillar of the plan. Byendaimira noted that in the context of climate change, urban planning must integrate environmental considerations to ensure resilience and long-term viability.

At the metropolitan level, the plan prioritises connectivity and accessibility, with a focus on leveraging infrastructure through transit-oriented development. This approach is expected to optimise land use and improve mobility across the region.

He further highlighted that efforts to organise Kampala began about 15 years ago, when it became evident that planning the city in isolation would not be effective without addressing its surrounding areas.

The current initiative marks a significant milestone, as it represents the first comprehensive Greater Kampala Metropolitan Physical Development Plan. Previously, planning efforts were limited to a broader framework, lacking the detailed structure now being pursued.

The plan is expected to play a critical role in shaping Kampala’s future as a more organised, resilient, and inclusive urban hub.