Kampala Lord Mayor Eng. Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga has opposed the government’s proposal to consider relocating Uganda’s capital from Kampala to Nakasongola, calling for public consultation and adherence to constitutional procedures before any decision is made.
Balimwezo said he respects the government and the minister behind the proposal but argued that changing the country’s capital is too important to be decided through an announcement.
“I respect the government and the minister. However, changing the capital is not a decision that should simply be announced,” Balimwezo said.
His comments follow remarks by State Minister for Urban Development Margaret Muhanga Mugisha, who said the government is considering Nakasongola as an alternative capital as part of efforts to address Kampala’s growing traffic congestion.
Muhanga said Uganda loses approximately Shs2.8 trillion annually because of traffic congestion in Kampala.
However, Balimwezo argued that relocating the capital would have major consequences for businesses, workers and residents whose livelihoods are connected to the city.
He described Kampala as Uganda’s economic hub, serving an estimated 4.5 million people and generating about 70% of local revenue. Instead of relocating the capital, he called for increased investment in public transport, roads and other infrastructure.
Balimwezo also urged the government to develop other urban centres across the country while improving Kampala rather than abandoning it as the capital.
He called for a national dialogue involving citizens, local leaders and other stakeholders before any decision is made.
The proposal to consider Nakasongola as a new capital has already generated debate over its possible economic, constitutional, administrative and social implications.
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