Balimwezo rejects proposal to shift capital from Kampala

What the report says

Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo has rejected a proposal to move Uganda’s administrative capital away from Kampala, saying the idea needs broad public consultation and legal due process before any decision is taken. The comments were reported by Nile Post and were made after State Minister for Urban Development Margaret Muhanga indicated that the government is considering a phased relocation of some administrative functions to Nakasongola.

According to the report, Balimwezo argued that Kampala residents and other Ugandans should be consulted because the move could affect businesses, families and livelihoods tied to the city. He said Kampala remains Uganda’s economic centre and home to major government offices, diplomatic missions and private sector activity. He also said the response to congestion and infrastructure strain should be to invest more in Kampala while developing other urban centres at the same time.

Balimwezo further said the Kampala Capital City Authority needs stronger funding to deliver infrastructure and services, noting a gap between its budget needs and what it receives. He said this shortfall has affected plans for transport and congestion-reduction projects such as bus rapid transit, rail and metro systems. The article says the proposal has already drawn parliamentary scrutiny, with a committee asking for a detailed feasibility and implementation plan. Government officials have said Kampala would remain the country’s main commercial hub even if administrative offices were moved.