Uganda Electoral Commission Breaks Ground for Permanent Headquarters in Lubowa

Lubowa–Wakiso District | July 30, 2025 – In a landmark development for Uganda’s electoral infrastructure, the Electoral Commission (EC) has officially broken ground for the construction of its permanent Head Offices in Lubowa–Lweza, Wakiso District. The historic ceremony signals a bold step towards institutional growth, improved service delivery, and the strengthening of democratic processes in the country.

The groundbreaking ceremony was graced by several high-ranking government officials, including the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, and the Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robina Nabbanja.

The upcoming EC headquarters will be a purpose-built facility that consolidates core functions of the Commission under one roof. It will feature modern office space, warehousing facilities, and state-of-the-art ICT infrastructure to support the full spectrum of electoral activities — from planning and logistics to civic education and results transmission.

Justice Byabakama, while officiating the groundbreaking,

emphasized the significance of the new facility in bolstering the EC’s capacity to serve the people of Uganda with integrity and professionalism.

“This is more than just a building. It is a commitment to improve our service, strengthen democracy, and ensure Uganda’s elections are managed with professionalism, integrity and efficiency, under one permanent roof,” said Justice Byabakama.

The construction of the new headquarters is being undertaken by the National Housing and Construction Company Limited (NHCC), Uganda’s leading real estate developer, under the supervision and full backing of the Government of Uganda.

According to Hon. Norbert Mao, the new facility is a symbol of the Electoral Commission’s dedication to institutional excellence and cost efficiency.

“The Commission is leading by example, investing in permanent infrastructure to improve electoral services and reduce the cost of rent. This project will raise the EC’s visibility and inspire other institutions to follow suit,” Mao noted.

This development is particularly important as the Commission continues to prepare for upcoming electoral cycles, which require increased coordination, technological preparedness, and accessibility.

Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robina Nabbanja hailed the initiative as a timely milestone that celebrates Uganda’s constitutional journey. She noted that regular elections have become a defining element of Uganda’s governance landscape.

“What a way to mark 30 years of our Constitution than with a permanent home for the Electoral Commission, built for service, innovation and democratic growth,” said Nabbanja.

The project reflects the broader commitment of the Government of Uganda to invest in democratic institutions and ensure they are well-resourced and resilient. The new headquarters is expected to serve as a hub for electoral excellence, facilitate better staff coordination, and offer improved access for stakeholders including political parties, civil society, the media, and citizens.

Once completed, the facility will contribute to:

Streamlining the operations of the Electoral Commission

Reducing costs associated with renting multiple office spaces

Enhancing the security and integrity of electoral materials

Improving stakeholder engagement through accessible, centralized services

With construction now underway, the Electoral Commission has demonstrated its long-term commitment to building trust, transparency, and capacity in Uganda’s electoral system. The new headquarters is poised to become a cornerstone in the country’s democratic infrastructure, aligning with national development goals and the aspirations of Ugandans for free, fair, and credible elections.

As Uganda prepares for its next cycle of general elections, the new home of the EC in Lubowa will stand not just as a building, but as a symbol of Uganda’s unwavering journey towards inclusive and accountable governance.