Ministry of Local Government to Host 2025 Cities Expo and Symposium in Mbarara from 15th to 18th March

The Cities Consortium, in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, and the Urban Authorities Association of Uganda, will host the 2025 Cities Expo and Symposium from 15th to 18th March in Mbarara. The event, themed "Building Smart, Green, Resilient, and Climate Responsive Cities for All," aims to bring together key stakeholders to discuss how Uganda can navigate rapid urbanization and technological advancements while addressing growing social inequalities.

Jan 22, 2025 - 20:36
Jan 23, 2025 - 11:30
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Ministry of Local Government to Host 2025 Cities Expo and Symposium in Mbarara from 15th to 18th March

Mr. Ahmed Kawesi, CEO of the Cities Consortium, on Wednesday, emphasized during his keynote address that cities have always been central to human progress, but Uganda is now at a critical juncture. With urbanization rates soaring at 5.2% and Uganda's urban population reaching 27% one of the highest rates in the world there is an urgent need for innovative solutions to urban challenges. 

He also underscored the importance of partnerships and collaborative efforts in driving Uganda’s urban transformation.

Hon. Judith Nabakooba, the Minister of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, was represented by Pade Walter, the Commissioner, who expressed her pride in the country’s efforts to develop sustainable cities. 

She commended the Ministry of Local Government, led by Hon. Raphael Magyezi, for its role in supporting urban growth in Uganda, noting the government's commitment to urbanization policies and initiatives.

Hon. Magyezi, speaking at the event, acknowledged the leadership of President Museveni for providing a foundation for urban development in Uganda. 

He emphasized that, despite some skepticism about the need for cities due to their cost, the country has made significant strides. The creation of 10 new cities, along with the implementation of a National Urbanization Policy, has resulted in improved infrastructure, governance, and local revenue generation.

Local revenue in cities like Arua, Mbarara, and Soroti has more than doubled, with Arua City's revenue growing from 3.8 billion UGX to 5.73 billion UGX. This financial boost has enabled cities to purchase road equipment, improve administration, and strengthen local services.

Staffing in the cities has also seen improvements, with ongoing recruitment and an additional 2 billion UGX allocated to each city. Furthermore, all political leaders have been inducted into their roles, contributing to the enhanced governance and operational capacity of Uganda’s urban centers.

As Uganda continues to urbanize, the government remains committed to addressing urbanization challenges, promoting sustainable growth, and ensuring that the country’s cities thrive through innovation, sound governance, and collaborative partnerships.

Benjamin Mwibo Benjamin Mwibo is a talented, passionate and creative journalist with a commitment to high quality out put that is factual and researched. Above all Dedicated with a strong desire to identify the truth of the matter.