Mukono District Advances Detailed Area Action Plan, Urges Community Sensitization to Support Orderly Urban Development

Mukono District Physical Planning Department has intensified the implementation of its Fourth Detailed Area Action Plan (DAAP) by engaging leaders in Ntenjeru–Kisoga Town Council and urging them to sensitize communities on the importance of supporting and consenting to government development projects aimed at promoting orderly and sustainable urban growth.

The engagement brought together councilors, technical staff, and opinion leaders to address the rapid urban expansion of the town council and deliberate on emerging physical planning challenges. Leaders acknowledged growing concerns including land encroachment, unplanned settlements, substandard plot developments, and weak infrastructure systems.

Key issues highlighted included encroachment on road reserves and environmentally sensitive areas, incompatible land use such as residential developments near industrial zones, poor waste management, inadequate road networks, and limited access to essential public services such as schools, health facilities, and skilling centres. Leaders also emphasized the importance of preserving open spaces, improving urban greenery, and strengthening environmental protection.

The district physical planning team explained that the Detailed Area Action Plan provides a structured framework to guide sustainable development. The plan defines land use patterns, regulates building standards, strengthens transport networks, and promotes effective provision of utilities such as water and electricity. It also supports investment, protects environmental resources, and ensures equitable access to social services.

Mr. Kamoga Hamuza, the Mukono District Physical Planner, emphasized the importance of adhering to approved physical planning guidelines, including proper plot numbering, tree planting, and maintaining straight road alignments to facilitate infrastructure development.

“Infrastructure development can only succeed when communities and leaders work together to follow structured planning guidelines,” he said.

He identified strategic growth areas including Kisoga Township, Ntenjeru Township, Mpuumu Trading Centre, Lwetega Trading Centre, and Piida Trading Centre in Terere Ward as key zones requiring guided and corrective planning.

Mr. Patrick Balilonda, one of the facilitators, briefed leaders on the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Program (GKMA-UDP) and emphasized the importance of passing by-laws to prevent land encroachment. He also urged leaders to sensitize communities on the need to consent to government projects, especially road construction, noting that community cooperation is essential for successful implementation of development initiatives.

Ms. Mirembe Dinah, the Town Clerk of Ntenjeru–Kisoga Town Council, appreciated Mukono District and its partners for organizing the engagement and encouraged leaders to serve as ambassadors of accurate information within their communities. She also emphasized the importance of environmental sanitation and called for joint community efforts to improve hygiene.

The Deputy Mayor, Ms. Nakyanzi Proscovia, echoed the call for unity and collective responsibility, urging leaders to actively support corrective planning initiatives aimed at improving the town council’s development and future outlook.

According to recent projections, Ntenjeru–Kisoga Town Council has a population of over 22,000 people, with a youthful demographic and rapidly expanding peri-urban settlements. This growth has increased the urgency for structured planning to prevent disorderly development and protect public infrastructure and environmental resources.

The engagement marked a significant step in Mukono District’s efforts to promote organized, sustainable, and inclusive urban development through the Detailed Area Action Plan. By equipping local leaders with knowledge and emphasizing community sensitization, the district aims to strengthen compliance with physical planning standards and ensure orderly growth.

With continued collaboration between district authorities, local leaders, and communities, Ntenjeru–Kisoga Town Council is positioned to achieve improved infrastructure, environmental protection, and better service delivery. The successful implementation of the DAAP will not only address current planning challenges but also lay a strong foundation for long-term socio-economic development and improved quality of life for residents.