Eng. Kenneth Kaijuka Calls for Streamlined Land Use and Empowered Local Authorities in Housing Development

The Chief Executive Officer of the National Housing and Construction Company (NHCC), Eng. Kenneth Kaijuka, has urged the government agency responsible for urban planning and housing to streamline land use and empower local authorities to properly zone areas and regulate housing developments. His remarks come amid a surge in real estate activity and infrastructure expansion, particularly in Kampala, where the demand for housing is rapidly growing.

Urbanization in Uganda has been accelerating, especially in major cities like Kampala. With this rapid expansion, there is a growing need for a well-structured approach to land use. Kaijuka emphasized that the current urban planning framework requires refinement to ensure that residential, commercial, and industrial zones are well-defined. This will help mitigate unplanned settlements, congestion, and environmental degradation.

“The government must adopt a more structured approach to land use by setting clear zoning regulations that cater to the increasing demand for housing while maintaining sustainable development,” Kaijuka stated.

One of Kaijuka’s key recommendations is to empower local authorities with the necessary tools and legal frameworks to enforce zoning regulations effectively. Many local councils face challenges in implementing urban planning policies due to limited resources and bureaucratic inefficiencies.

“Local authorities need to be equipped with adequate funding and policy frameworks to enforce land use regulations. This will help in ensuring that housing developments align with the city’s master plan and prevent the emergence of informal settlements,” he added.

The Real Estate Institute of Uganda (REIU) reports that Kampala has seen significant growth in the property sector, driven by infrastructure developments and increasing investment in real estate. The expansion of roads, commercial hubs, and social amenities has stimulated demand for both affordable and high-end housing.

However, experts warn that if urban planning is not streamlined, the city could face challenges such as overcrowding, inadequate public services, and rising property costs. Proper land-use planning would help address these issues and promote orderly development.

Kaijuka called for a collaborative effort between government agencies, real estate developers, and local authorities to create a comprehensive urban development strategy. This strategy should include policies that encourage affordable housing, regulate land speculation, and promote green building practices.

“To create sustainable cities, we must adopt policies that encourage proper zoning, environmentally friendly housing developments, and equitable access to land and housing,” Kaijuka emphasized.

With Kampala’s rapid urban growth, the call by Kenneth Kaijuka for streamlined land use and empowered local authorities is timely and crucial. Effective urban planning and regulation will not only enhance the quality of housing developments but also ensure sustainable and inclusive urban growth. The government and relevant stakeholders must work together to implement policies that balance development needs with environmental and social considerations.