Minister Nabakooba Commends Mukono’s Progress During GKMA-UDP Monitoring Visit

Mukono’s steady urban transformation received a significant boost following a political monitoring visit by the Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Judith Nabakooba, who assessed the progress of infrastructure projects under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Development Programme (GKMDP).

The Minister’s visit aimed at strengthening oversight, coordination and accountability in the implementation of strategic urban interventions across the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. The GKMDP is a large-scale urban development initiative supported by the World Bank and Agence Française de Développement (AFD), focusing on improving mobility, drainage systems and infrastructure resilience.

The monitoring exercise brought together key political and technical leaders, including Mukono District Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Ddamba Henry, Mukono Municipal Town Clerk Mr. Byabagambi Francis, Mukono Municipality Mayor Erisa Mukasa Nkoyoyo, and officials from various government ministries and the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area technical team.

Speaking during the visit, Town Clerk Byabagambi Francis reported that road works in Mukono Municipality are progressing steadily, with physical progress standing at 57% against the planned 58%, indicating that implementation is largely on schedule.

He explained that contractors are currently undertaking key works including relocation of utilities such as water and electricity lines, construction of drainage systems, laying of road base, tarmacking, road marking, and installation of walkways and street lighting.

“These projects are already creating visible change in our municipality,” Mr. Byabagambi noted, appreciating the continued support from government and development partners.

However, he acknowledged challenges such as right-of-way disputes, misunderstandings regarding compensation, underestimation of utility relocation costs, and isolated cases of theft of construction materials. He reassured the Minister that a grievance redress committee is operational to address complaints and that continuous community engagement has helped build trust and minimize tensions.

Mukono Deputy Resident District Commissioner Mrs. Rhodha Tiitwe Kagagga welcomed the Minister and applauded the strong collaboration between political leaders, technical officers, consultants and contractors. She emphasized that teamwork has been instrumental in keeping the projects on course and urged residents to safeguard government infrastructure in their communities.

In her remarks, Hon. Nabakooba expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved so far and commended the municipal leadership for translating the GKMDP vision into tangible results on the ground.

She stressed that proper physical planning is essential for safe, organized and sustainable urban growth.

“Towns must grow according to approved physical plans to avoid future disasters caused by poor planning,” she cautioned.

The Minister further encouraged municipalities to plan for critical infrastructure such as landfill sites and to promote recycling as part of modern waste management practices.

She also appreciated residents who cooperated during land acquisition for road expansion and drainage channels, noting that compensation in urban areas is often costly and can delay development projects. She advised landowners to work closely with municipal land officers and physical planners to update land titles for remaining portions of land to prevent future disputes and protect both community and government investments.

“Where there are challenges, let us sit together, talk openly and move forward as one team,” she urged, reaffirming government’s commitment to timely completion of the projects.

The monitoring visit highlighted strong political and technical backing behind Mukono’s ongoing transformation. Roads that were once dusty and muddy are steadily being upgraded. Drainage channels are improving storm water management, while walkways and streetlights are enhancing safety and mobility.

Beyond infrastructure, the GKMDP projects are stimulating business growth, creating employment opportunities and increasing property values within the municipality.

As Mukono continues to expand, the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Development Programme is laying a firm foundation for a resilient, organized and modern urban center. With sustained coordination between government, leaders and residents, Mukono’s future looks structured, brighter and full of opportunity.