Shs2.1 Trillion Project Sparks Urban Transformation for Kampala and Beyond

The Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GMKA-UDP) is generating a surge of excitement and anticipation among stakeholders as it heralds a new era of urban transformation for Uganda's capital city and its surrounding regions.

Supported by the Government of Uganda, the Shs2.1 trillion GMKA-UDP aspires to revolutionise Kampala's infrastructure landscape, promoting modernisation, resilience, and inclusivity.

The GMKA-UDP encompasses not only Kampala but also significant areas such as Entebbe, Kira, Makindye-Ssabagabo, Mukono, Nansana, and the districts of Mukono, Mpigi, and Wakiso.

The programme's focal points include enhancing mobility and accessibility through road upgrades, bolstering urban resilience with drainage infrastructure, fostering job creation through the establishment of workspaces, and strengthening institutional capacity for coordinated planning and investment in infrastructure.

During a sensitisation workshop for city division leaders at the Fairway Hotel on Tuesday, Dorothy Kisaka, Executive Director of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), emphasised the transformative potential of the project.

"This project is important for our Smart City agenda," Kisaka remarked. "Through this initiative, we are fully committed to elevating our infrastructure and significantly enhancing the quality of life for all our community members."

She outlined the core pillars of the Smart City agenda, which include leveraging technology for innovation and connectivity, upgrading infrastructure such as roads and drainage systems, and prioritising people's well-being, including crucial issues like air quality.

“Through this initiative, we are fully committed to elevating our infrastructure and significantly enhancing the quality of life for all our community members." Kisaka said.

She appealed to the city's political leaders and residents to contribute to the smooth implementation of the project.

“We are going to have several engagements to make sure the project succeeds,” Kisaka stated, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts among political leaders to ensure the programme's success.

This programme aligns with Uganda's Vision 2040, which seeks to promote urban development and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

Olive Namazzi, representing the Lord Mayor of Kampala Erias Lukwago, reiterated the project's significance.

"It is a project that is going to change our city infrastructure and the whole metropolitan area. We must ensure it succeeds," Namazzi urged.

The Project Coordinator, Emmanuel Gabula, called on elected leaders to support the initiative through sensitisation, legislation, and mobilisation.

The programme's comprehensive approach includes installing street lights, traffic signalisation, and creating an urban forest park to enhance the city's green spaces.