As Kampala City approaches the 2026 Lord Mayoral election, the need for a leader who embodies vision, expertise, and dedication to the city’s growth becomes increasingly evident. It’s time for us “the Kampala dwellers” to wake up to the reality of ineffective opposition politics, which has prioritized politicking over service delivery, hindering the city’s progress.
The perpetual tug-of-war between the Opposition-led Kampala City and the Central Government is severely hindering the progress and development of Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. This pernicious political gridlock has alarmingly resulted in the diversion of attention and resources away from pressing urban challenges, towards political posturing and one-upmanship.
This destructive dynamic is denying Kampala’s residents the quality of life they deserve, stifling economic growth, and tarnishing Uganda’s reputation. If there was no waste of time on political wars between Kampala City leadership particularly the office of Lord Mayor and the Central government, we would be seeing very impressive projects like;
Waste Management (WM): The Integrated Waste Management System would have provided a comprehensive solution to Kampala’s waste challenges, including prompt door-to-door collection, modern sorting and recycling facilities, and community-based initiatives. In light of the recent tragic collapse of the Kiteezi waste dumping center, this project would have avoided it by prioritizing safe and sustainable waste disposal methods, ensuring the protection of human life and the environment. This would have improved public health, reduced pollution, increased recycling and resource recovery, and prevented its devastating impacts.
Food Security Initiatives (FSI): The Kampala City leadership food security initiative would have already established community farming demonstration hubs in each division of Kampala providing accessible training and resources for urban farmers. Unlike the current centralized hub in Kyanja, which poses transportation challenges for low-income farmers from other divisions, these initiatives evenly distributed in all 5 divisions would have brought services closer to the people, promoting decentralized governance and community empowerment.
Each hub would be offering training, tools, and support for urban agriculture, community gardens, and food assistance programs, increasing food security, reducing hunger, and improving nutrition for Kampala’s residents. Such a beautiful initiative can’t be realized or prioritized by the current Kampala City leadership.
Kampala Affordable Housing (KAH): Kampala’s Affordable Housing Initiative would have been established and would be already providing smart, modern, and affordable housing units for low-income earners, addressing the city’s severe housing shortage and deplorable living conditions. Astonishingly, Kampala City leadership has neglected to build decent housing for its most vulnerable citizens, perpetuating poor hygiene, inadequate shelter, and hazardous living conditions. This project would have rectified these issues by constructing well-planned, high-quality homes with essential amenities, transforming the lives of low-income dwellers and setting a new standard for urban development. Features would include; decent and secure housing units, access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, community facilities and social services, inclusive design for people with disabilities, subsidized rent/ownership options. All these would have offered benefits like; improved living conditions and health outcomes, enhanced safety and security, reduced housing costs and financial burden, increased access to social services and community support modern and dignified living environment for low-income earners.
Kampala School Structures enhancement project: If this project had been established, by now it would have already transformed the city’s public schools into modern, safe, and inclusive learning environments, setting a new standard for urban education. It’s unacceptable that schools like Nakivuubo Blue Primary, Buganda Road Primary, Bat Valley Primary and Nakasero Primary and many others located in the heart of Kampala City, still lacking basic amenities and safety features, such as: modern classrooms and facilities, waterproof roofs and secure structures, lightning arresters and safety systems, modern fences and secure boundaries, accessible infrastructure for students with disabilities.
This Kampala School Structures enhancement project would have addressed these disparities, ensuring that Kampala’s public schools surpass private schools in service delivery and provide high-quality education for all. The city leadership would have prioritized public education and proved that government-funded schools can excel beyond private institutions.
The Kampala community would be right now enjoying benefits like; improved learning outcomes and academic performance, enhanced safety and security for students and staff, increased access to quality education for disadvantaged groups, modernized facilities and infrastructure, and restored community trust in public education. The last time I visited this City Hall-based Education office (I think 10 years ago), I really saw what bureaucracy and poor customer care mean.
Community Markets (CM): The Community Markets Revitalization project is another wonderful transformative initiative that would have revolutionized the way vendors and small-scale businesses operate in Kampala. By establishing modern, well-equipped markets with affordable stall rental options, training programs, and market management services, this project would have unlocked the full potential of local entrepreneurship, improved working conditions, increased income opportunities, and enhanced customer experience. This comprehensive approach wouldn’t have only boosted economic growth but also fostered a sense of community, promoted social inclusion, and enhanced the overall quality of life for Kampala’s residents.
Kampala Public Transportation (KPT): Kampala’s Efficient Public Transportation System would be another game-changer initiative that would have transformed the city’s transportation landscape. By introducing a reliable, efficient, and affordable network featuring modern buses, dedicated lanes, and real-time tracking, this project would have dramatically reduced travel times, improved air quality, and increased access to employment, education, and healthcare. This comprehensive overhaul wouldn’t only enhance the daily commute for millions of residents but also drive economic growth, reduce congestion, and make Kampala a more livable, sustainable, and attractive city for generations to come.
Healthcare Services (HS): The Community Healthcare Improvement project would be another vital initiative that would revolutionize healthcare delivery in Kampala. By strengthening and expanding healthcare services, focusing on community-level care, upgraded facilities, and increased staffing, this project would have significantly improved health outcomes, increased access to healthcare, and reduced infant and maternal mortality rates. This comprehensive approach would not only save lives but also enhance the overall well-being of Kampala’s residents, particularly vulnerable populations, and contribute to a healthier, more productive, and thriving community.
Job Creation Initiatives (JCI): The Job Creation Initiatives would also be a groundbreaking endeavor that would catapult Kampala’s economy into a new era of growth and prosperity. By supporting entrepreneurship, vocational training, and employment programs, focusing on youth and vulnerable populations, this project would unlock the full potential of Kampala’s human capital, reduce unemployment, increase economic opportunities, and enhance livelihoods. This comprehensive approach would not only create jobs but also foster a culture of innovation, self-reliance, and economic empowerment but also transform Kampala into a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come.
Sanitation and Hygiene(S&H): The Sanitation and Hygiene project would be also another critical initiative that would transform the lives of Kampala’s residents by providing access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene education. By reducing water-borne diseases and improving public health, this project would have a profound impact on the well-being and dignity of thousands of people, particularly in underserved communities. This comprehensive approach would not only save lives but also enhance the quality of life, increase economic productivity, and contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable urban environment.
Kampala Community Centers (CC): Kampala Community Centers project would be another visionary initiative that would have served as a catalyst for social cohesion, community engagement, and collective progress in Kampala. By establishing vibrant centers for social services, skills training, and community engagement, this project would foster a sense of belonging, promote social inclusion, and provide a safe space for residents to connect, learn, and grow. This comprehensive approach would not only strengthen community bonds but also empower residents, enhance quality of life, and contribute to a more harmonious, inclusive, and thriving urban community.
Green Spaces (GS): This Green Spaces project would have breathed new life into Kampala’s urban landscape. By creating and maintaining public parks, gardens, and green areas, this project would have provided a peaceful refuge for recreation, relaxation, and environmental sustainability. This comprehensive approach would not have only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the city but also mitigated the effects of urbanization, improved air quality, and fostered a sense of community and social cohesion, making Kampala a more livable, sustainable, and beautiful city for generations to come. As of now, our city is in a total mess. When you visit Fort Portal City, you will know what I am yearning for. Look at the kind of flowers, trees and the order in which they are planted in Fort Portal city! In the way, take a look at how the area around our Kampala City railway station is disorganized! Poor choice of trees and flowers in the heart of Kampala City! #KwegambaOlemwa!
Support for Persons with Disabilities (SPWD): The Support for Persons with Disabilities project would be a pioneering initiative that could have revolutionized the lives of Kampala’s residents with disabilities. By implementing inclusive infrastructure, support services, and advocacy programs, this project could have promoted equal opportunities, social inclusion, and independent living. This comprehensive approach would not only empower individuals with disabilities but also challenge societal attitudes, break down barriers, and create a more accessible, equitable, and just society for all, making Kampala a model of disability inclusion and a beacon of hope for generations to come.
Food Security Initiatives (FSI): The Food Security Initiatives would have been a vital endeavor that would ensure the well-being and sustenance of Kampala’s residents. By supporting urban agriculture, community gardens, and food assistance programs, this project would provided a reliable safety net against hunger and malnutrition, particularly for vulnerable populations. This comprehensive approach would not have only addressed immediate food needs but also promoted sustainable food systems, enhanced livelihoods, and contributed to a healthier, more food-secure, and resilient community, where everyone has access to nutritious food and can thrive.
Public Safety Initiatives (PSI): The Public Safety Initiatives would be a bold and comprehensive endeavor that would transform the safety and security landscape of Kampala. By improving street lighting, security patrols, and emergency response systems, this project would significantly reduce crime, enhance community safety, and provide a secure environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. This proactive approach would not only prevent and respond to crime but also foster a sense of trust, confidence, and well-being, making Kampala a safer, more attractive and thriving city for all.
Digital Literacy Project (DLP): The Digital Literacy project would be a forward-thinking initiative that would bridge the technology gap in Kampala. By providing access to digital tools, training, and resources, this project would empower residents with the skills to navigate the digital world, access information, and unlock new opportunities. This comprehensive approach would not only enhance digital inclusion but also foster economic growth, improve education, and increase civic engagement, making Kampala a more connected, competitive, and thriving city in the digital age.
Healthcare Outreach Program (HOP): The Healthcare Outreach Program would be a compassionate initiative that would extend the reach of healthcare services to marginalized and underserved communities in Kampala. By deploying mobile health clinics, community health workers, and outreach teams, this program would bridge the healthcare gap, provide essential medical services, and promote health education. This proactive approach would not only improve health outcomes but also foster trust, address health disparities, and empower individuals and families to take control of their health, making Kampala a city where everyone has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their circumstances.
Skills Training Programs (STP): The Skills Training Programs would be a transformative initiative that would empower Kampala’s residents with the skills to succeed in the modern economy. By offering vocational training, apprenticeships, and workforce development programs, this initiative would equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and certifications needed to secure better-paying jobs, start their own businesses, and drive economic growth. This comprehensive approach would not only enhance employability but also foster entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-sufficiency, making Kampala a city of opportunity, where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.
In difference, the NRM Lord Mayor would have worked hand in hand with the central government to implement all these remarkable projects in our Kampala City because NRM has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver results, drive development, and improve lives but the Opposition is failing it. How can you work with someone who doesn’t want the public to see him or her planning with you? So, the choice is again clear in 2026: NRM’s proven track record of unlocking central government resources, implementing effective urban planning, and fostering a pro-business environment versus the opposition’s empty promises and politicking all the time.
Otherwise, its painful to see a city which would be a good example to other cities in Uganda struggling with a myriad of challenges including traffic congestion, poor road infrastructure, laughable waste management plan, limited access to clean water and healthcare, high crime rates, uncontrolled urbanization especially in wetland areas, inefficient public transportation, and corruption, again adding ‘pulling ropes with the Central government’ to the list; instead, the leadership of the city must have prioritized effective collaboration and communication with the central government to ensure proper service delivery and address the existing problems. It’s now evident that the most suitable candidate for the Lord Mayor Seat let come 2026 is an NRM cadre.
The election of an NRM Lord Mayor for Kampala City would bring numerous advantages; including: unlocked access to central government resources and funding, faultless alignment with national development plans and policies, harnessed NRM’s extensive network and expertise, fostered pro-business and investment-friendly environment, leveraged experience in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects, strengthened connections with international partners and donors, enhanced ability to coordinate with national security agencies to address crime, proven track record of implementing effective urban planning strategies and many others.
Conclusively, in 2026, Kampala City needs an NRM Lord Mayor who will unlock its full potential but not that one who all the time is pulling the ropes with the central government. With the party’s experience, resources, and expertise, the city will witness transformative growth, improved services, and enhanced quality of life. I therefore call upon my fellow NRM supporters from all the five divisions of Kampala District to join us in our new and tactical campaign of revitalizing NRM party in Kampala. So, when time comes, let us embrace the NRM’s vision for a better Kampala and elect a Lord Mayor who will lead our city to prosperity.
The writer is CEO Pamoja Community Empowerment Network /Email: pamojauganda72@gmail.com
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