KCCA, ISLAMIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, ENGAGES CITY STAKEHOLDERS TO BOOST PRIVATE SECTOR COLLABORATION

The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in collaboration with the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Industry Uganda (ICCIU), have hosted a private sector engagement with Kampala stakeholders to focus on strengthening public-private partnerships.

The engagement was held at Serena Hotel on Wednesday January 26, where the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Hajat Minsa Kabanda highlighted the critical role of public-private partnerships in the city’s growth.

She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address bureaucratic challenges and infrastructure deficits. The Minister called for aligning public policies with private sector needs to create a favorable environment for investment, focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and accountability.

“Kampala is for everyone, so we need to work as a team to improve it,” Kabanda stated. She urged KCCA to lead with vision and purpose while remaining accessible and accountable to the public.

The Lord Mayor of Kampala Hajji Erias Lukwagi noted the need to transition from a regulatory role to being enablers of economic growth, highlighting the importance of mentorship and skill development for local businesses.

Lukwago encouraged business moguls to invest in non-profit oriented sectors such us public libraries and parking towers which are essential for the city's sustainable development.

He said investing in public libraries, would enhance access to knowledge and education, while multi-level parking towers to address the persistent challenge of congestion in the central business district.

Lukwago said such investments play a critical role in improving urban infrastructure, easing traffic flow, and fostering a more knowledge-driven society.

Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, the Executive Director of KCCA, reiterated her commitment to transforming Kampala into a livable city through strong partnerships. She stressed the importance of harmonized infrastructure development and effective physical planning for local economic growth and job creation. Buzeki emphasized engaging all stakeholders regularly to ensure transparency and inclusivity in KCCA's operations.

Ibrahim Lule, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, emphasized the importance of the dialogue in bridging the gap between KCCA and the private sector.

“We have come to bond with KCCA to deliver good services to the city,” Lule stated.

He urged KCCA to engage more closely with the public to gather firsthand information, ensuring that the authority’s initiatives align with the needs of Kampala’s residents and businesses.

Haj. Nooh Mayambala, President of ICCIU, highlighted the chamber’s role in linking Ugandan businesses and advocating for ethical practices.

“ICCIU is committed to fostering a business environment that promotes growth, sustainability, and integrity,” Mayambala remarked.

He called for increased collaboration between the private sector and government to drive Kampala’s economic development.

Pastor Ssempa Martin called for the construction of children’s libraries in Kampala to promote education and literacy among the city’s youth.

“Investing in our children’s future is essential for the long-term development of Kampala,” he asserted.

By Lorraine Queen Rukundo and

Gift Nangonde Kalikulali