Construction of Shs16.7 Billion Kawuku Market Begins Under GKMA Urban Development Programme

Construction of the Shs16.7 billion Kawuku Market has officially commenced following the handover of the project site by the State Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Joseph Kabuye Kyofatogabye, under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP).

Speaking during the site handover ceremony, Kyofatogabye urged traders and local leaders to focus on development and wealth creation, emphasizing that economic progress is more important than political excitement.

“We must prioritize social and individual development. Political excitement alone cannot improve people’s livelihoods if they have no income,” he said.

The minister encouraged traders to embrace value addition, maintain cleanliness within markets, and adopt proper packaging standards to improve the competitiveness of their products.

He also called upon shop owners operating along roadsides to pave the areas in front of their businesses as government continues upgrading road infrastructure across the district.

“As roads are improved, we should all play our part in preventing dust from affecting businesses and the environment,” Kyofatogabye said.

The minister further revealed that the GKMA-UDP programme is valued at approximately Shs2.2 trillion, with Wakiso District expected to benefit from projects worth nearly Shs800 billion.

Wakiso Chief Administrative Officer Jude Mark Bukenya assured residents that government officials remain committed to ensuring the successful implementation of the market project.

“This market belongs to the people, and we shall ensure it serves its intended purpose. Any government worker who attempts to encroach on this facility will be dealt with firmly,” Bukenya said.

Wakiso District Chairperson Engineer Ian Kyeyune described the market as part of a wider strategy aimed at improving social welfare, transport infrastructure, trade, commerce, and employment opportunities within the district.

“We expect contractors to prioritize local residents during recruitment. I encourage all interested residents to register with the district labour office to benefit from available job opportunities,” Kyeyune said.

District Engineer Lillian Namutebi Jagwe highlighted the key features of the modern market, including lock-up shops, restaurants, storage facilities, security offices, market administration offices, a daycare centre, a mini-bank, freezer rooms, sanitation facilities, loading and offloading bays, parking space, a garbage collection centre, solar power installations, and a value-addition centre.

“The market will be properly zoned to improve organisation, efficiency, and service delivery while providing a safe and modern environment for both traders and consumers,” Jagwe explained.

Frank Kajula encouraged farmers from distant areas to utilize the facility by supplying agricultural produce to the market.

He also pledged support in sensitizing traders on occupational safety and health standards, financial literacy, and social development programmes.

Speaking on behalf of Scaffold Engineering and Construction Limited Managing Director Dinesh Patel, Sylvia Mabonga said the company is committed to delivering the project according to the agreed specifications and timelines.

“We are committed to working closely with consultants, district authorities, and the local community to ensure the successful completion of this project. We also appeal for community support throughout the construction period,” Mabonga said.

Representatives of market vendors welcomed the development and expressed confidence that the facility would be completed on schedule, noting that it will provide a modern trading environment capable of improving incomes and transforming livelihoods.

The Kawuku Market project is among several infrastructure investments being implemented under the GKMA-UDP programme as government seeks to modernize urban centres, expand economic opportunities, and improve service delivery across the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.

The market, which will be constructed by Scaffold Engineering and Construction Limited and supervised by UB Consulting Engineers, is expected to be completed within 12 months. Once completed, it will accommodate hundreds of vendors and provide modern facilities designed to enhance trade, improve public health standards, and boost livelihoods.