The government has reversed plans to redevelop Kampala’s Constitutional Square, commonly known as City Square, following public opposition to a proposal to turn the protected site into a commercial complex.
The decision came during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Yoweri Museveni on Monday, October 26.
ICT and National Guidance Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba announced the decision on Tuesday, October 27, saying the square would retain its protected legal status.
“Cabinet reversed the proposal to develop Constitutional Square (City Square). Site retains its protected legal status,” she stated.
Lumumba said the site has enjoyed heritage protection since 2007, with further safeguards under the Museums and Monuments Act, 2023, and a 2024 heritage instrument.
The decision follows weeks of controversy over a proposal by businessman Hassan Bulwadda to construct a solar-powered commercial complex comprising a hotel, shopping mall and other facilities.
On August 30, President Museveni directed Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda to study the proposal in consultation with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
Cabinet's decision now halts the redevelopment proposal, preserving the square's status as a protected public heritage site.
