By Caroline Kanshabe
The Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs has issued a firm plea for adherence to city regulations as Kampala readies itself to host the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and Group of 77 (G77) + China Summits in January 2024.
Under the guidance of Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, the Ministry is actively involved in an extensive infrastructure and beautification campaign to ensure the city is not only prepared for the global events but also positioned for sustainable development.
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) is presently concentrating its efforts on the refurbishment of city roads and drainage systems, with projects underway on vital arteries such as Cape/Wavamuno Road, Ggaba Road, Mukwano Road, and Press House Road.
Furthermore, maintenance and enhancement works are underway in various divisions, including Makindye, Tankhill, and Salaama Road. Notably, the ministry is also revitalizing and installing streetlights across the city to enhance safety and aesthetics.
Beautification and landscaping initiatives are in full swing, with locations such as the “Kubiri” roundabout in Kawempe Division and Ggaba Road in Makindye Division undergoing significant transformations.
With these infrastructure developments, there are inconveniences, and residents and property owners are encouraged to exercise patience during the ongoing rainy season.
Minister Kabanda, while addressing the public, called upon all residents to contribute to the city’s enhancement by adhering to crucial guidelines.
These include improving the cleanliness and aesthetics of residences and trading spaces, installing security lighting, paving frontages for a clean entrance, and actively participating in beautification efforts while avoiding littering.
To ensure compliance, KCCA has initiated house-to-house inspections scheduled to commence on December 1, 2023.
Inspections will concentrate on aspects such as cleanliness, proper waste disposal, building renovations, removal of illegal structures, installation of lighting, maintenance of green spaces, and adherence to construction site regulations, among other criteria.
Property owners, city operators, and the public are urged to address these requirements by December 20, 2023, to evade penalties.
“Non-compliance will lead to enforcement actions following relevant city planning and environmental regulations,” Kabanda warned.
The Minister expressed gratitude for the positive response from some property owners along Ggaba Road and underscored the importance of collective efforts in realizing the city’s vision of being vibrant, attractive, and sustainable.
As the city gears up for the global summits, the appeal for compliance serves as a rallying cry for all stakeholders to contribute to the comprehensive development of Kampala, aligning with its vision of becoming a smart, contemporary city.
