London, September 15, 2024 — At the 14th UK-Africa Annual Trade Summit, Counsellor Karungi Kirumira from Uganda delivered a compelling address, urging immediate reforms to Kampala’s infrastructure to boost the city’s investment climate and overall development. He raised critical issues concerning project delays, road conditions, and traffic congestion, which continue to hinder the capital’s growth.

Project Delays Hindering Investment in Kampala

Counsellor Kirumira expressed deep frustration over long-standing project approval delays by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). "Some projects have been awaiting approval for over a decade," Kirumira remarked, stressing that these delays are significant barriers to investment, limiting the capital’s ability to grow and attract foreign businesses. He noted that these are more than just bureaucratic issues; they have severe impacts on Kampala’s international competitiveness.

Addressing Kampala’s Infrastructure Crisis

Kirumira also criticized the deteriorating state of Kampala’s roads, describing them as some of the worst in Africa. To address this, he proposed inviting private investors to manage road repairs through a toll system. Such a solution, he argued, would not only improve road quality but also bring accountability and efficiency to the maintenance of critical infrastructure.

He explained that the city’s poor road conditions contribute significantly to traffic congestion, stifling economic activity. Kirumira pointed to other related issues, including the misuse of walkways, the lack of a dedicated bus terminal for trams and buses, and the haphazard parking of taxis, which further exacerbate the problem.

Government’s Response and Ongoing Plans

Government officials attending the summit acknowledged Kampala’s infrastructure challenges and the frustrations raised by Kirumira. They highlighted a $1 billion road improvement plan, which is aimed at upgrading the city’s infrastructure. Additionally, the government pointed to the creation of a specialized investor protection unit to safeguard investments and ensure smoother project implementation.

In addressing project delays, officials mentioned plans to explore new methods, such as the Swiss Challenge model, where unsolicited bids are allowed but subjected to a competitive process. However, they noted that time constraints often limit the adoption of such practices in Uganda.

A Path Forward for Kampala

Kirumira’s speech sparked a broader conversation about the need for urgent policy and structural reforms to make Kampala more investment-friendly. His calls for private-sector involvement in road maintenance and a streamlined project approval process were well-received. However, achieving these goals will require strong political will and coordinated government action.

As Uganda’s economic hub, Kampala must address these challenges to attract more local and foreign investment, improve living conditions, and support long-term development. The discussion at the UK-Africa Trade Summit highlighted that infrastructure reform is essential to securing Kampala’s future as a thriving economic center.