The Ugandan government requires over Shs 1 trillion to construct affordable and decent housing in slum areas nationwide, according to Judith Nabakooba, minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development.
Speaking at the Home Equals Global Campaign National Awards hosted by Habitat for Humanity at Hotel Africana on February 7, the minister outlined the government’s commitment to addressing the country’s growing housing deficit.
A NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Minister Nabakooba revealed that the prime minister has been tasked with convening key stakeholders to develop measures and a multi-year budget to finance the project.
“We discussed a holistic paper on the national housing strategy, and Cabinet supported the cause,” Nabakooba stated. “We are going to meet with the prime minister to revisit budgeting and mitigation strategies.”
She emphasized that over a trillion shillings is needed to replace slum housing with decent settlements. The ministry aims to integrate this funding into the 2025/2026 national budget.
“We’re looking at a trillion-plus because replacing slum houses with decent settlements requires significant investment,” Nabakooba said. “We are hopeful to tap into the upcoming budget.”
GOVT WORKERS TO BENEFIT
Nabakooba added that government workers will also benefit from the project, particularly those stationed in districts where housing is scarce. She highlighted the need to improve living conditions for civil servants who often struggle to find affordable housing in rural areas.
Currently, Uganda faces a housing deficit of 2.4 million units, a challenge the minister acknowledged while commending Habitat for Humanity for its efforts toward formal settlements and affordable housing solutions.
The award ceremony was attended by parliamentarians, students, media representatives and other dignitaries who participated in various categories of the competition. The event highlighted the critical role of Habitat for Humanity Uganda in promoting equitable housing solutions.
In his keynote address, Waggwa Nsibirwa, board chairperson of Habitat for Humanity Uganda, stressed the importance of affordable and decent housing as part of the Home Equals campaign.
“Housing is fundamental to various aspects of life, including education, health and work productivity,” Nsibirwa said. “If you wish to reduce disease, coming from a decent home matters. If you want output at work, the way you slept matters, and the way you wake up does matter. That’s why our vision as an organization is to see a Uganda where everyone has a decent place to live and thrive.”
Nsibirwa explained that Habitat for Humanity provides housing credit to low-income earners by partnering with stakeholders such as National Water and Sewerage Corporation and various banks.
PARLIAMENTARIANS SUPPORT THE HOME EQUALS CAMPAIGN
Roland Ndyomugyenyi, Rukiga county legislator, commended Habitat for Humanity Uganda for its pivotal role in advocating for equitable housing solutions, especially in informal settlements.
“This initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader vision of inclusive urbanization and the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities,” Ndyomugyenyi stated.
The Home Equals campaign aims to ensure that adequate housing is recognized as a fundamental right and that all Ugandans, regardless of income level, have access to safe and affordable homes. While the government’s commitment is evident, officials acknowledge the financial challenges ahead.
Sowed Ssewagudde, commissioner in the department of International & Transboundary Water Affairs, noted that Shs 14 billion is still required to implement key interventions across various regions.
“Out of the Shs 25 billion needed, Shs 11 billion has already been sourced through ongoing activities,” Ssewagudde explained. “The remaining funds are essential for initiatives such as early warning systems, swimming lessons in schools, and the purchase of water ambulances for rescue operations.”
Despite budgetary constraints, the collaborative efforts between the government and organizations like Habitat for Humanity offer hope for a future where affordable housing is accessible to all Ugandans.