COSASE MPs Alarmed by Deteriorating State of Uganda's Properties in Mombasa

What the report says

Members of Uganda’s Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) have raised alarm after inspecting government-owned properties in Mombasa, Kenya, and finding several of them in poor condition. The committee, led by chairperson and Kyadondo East MP Muwada Nkunyingi, visited the sites to review how Uganda Property Holdings Ltd is managing state assets, following questions flagged in the Auditor General’s 2025/26 report.

According to the report cited by Nile Post, Uganda Property Holdings Ltd oversees 41 government properties in Uganda, Kenya and London. The committee said some of the Mombasa buildings appeared dilapidated, which they linked to weak rental performance and limited upkeep. At one warehouse, MPs observed roof leaks even though tenants were still occupying the premises. At another property on Shimanzi Road, they found a floor section under repair, broken windows and leaking roofs, while the site was still being marketed to tenants.

Company managing director Wilbert Mugume said the problems reflect inadequate funding and argued that full renovations would require resources the entity does not have. He told the committee that the government currently provides less than Shs100 million, while the company is expected to manage a portfolio worth billions. Mugume appealed for about Shs50 billion to support renovations and develop idle land so the properties can generate better returns.

The issue matters because the assets are meant to bring revenue to the state, yet their condition appears to be limiting earnings. Mugume also said the London office was closed because of high operating costs, while title deeds for the properties remain secure.