By The government is considering a new approach to acquiring land for public projects encouraging citizens to donate land willingly, without expecting compensation. This model is being explored to speed up infrastructure developments in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA).
The proposal was discussed during an Inter-Ministerial Committee meeting held at the Kampala Serena Hotel, where progress on the $566 million Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP) was reviewed.
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According to the Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Minsa Kabanda, around 75% of people affected by the programme have already given up land voluntarily to allow road construction and other works to proceed.
“This is a clear sign that when communities are properly engaged, they are willing to support development without demanding payment,” Kabanda said.
The GKMA-UDP was launched in 2023 and covers road upgrades, drainage improvements, workspace modernization, and institutional strengthening in areas like Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono. Kabanda noted that work in some municipalities, such as Kiira and Mukono, is already 75% complete.
Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, supported the idea of voluntary land donations, calling it a potential solution to the delays and inflated costs caused by land compensation issues.
“Land acquisition has been a major obstacle in our infrastructure projects. But when people understand the benefits, they are more open to donating land for public good,” he said.
Katumba also warned that the government must invest in maintaining the roads once completed. He highlighted that improved roads significantly raise property values, giving communities a direct benefit from infrastructure development.
Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba urged government agencies to involve residents early in planning. She said holding local meetings to explain the goals of such projects is key to avoiding disputes.
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Inspector General of Government (IGG), Beti Kamya, warned that her office will closely monitor the GKMA-UDP to ensure transparency and proper implementation.
“We’ve had too many projects fail due to poor planning. We must carry out proper feasibility and risk assessments to avoid wasting public money,” Kamya said.
Meanwhile, Gen. Katumba raised concerns over the rise of street vending in Kampala. He said it contributes to traffic problems, pedestrian accidents, and blocked drainage channels.
“KCCA and local authorities must act decisively to regulate street vending before it affects public safety and health,” he said.
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