By Karim Were
Property owners and business operators in Kampala are racing against a new enforcement campaign by the Kampala Capital City Authority that targets neglected buildings, dirty surroundings and illegal use of public spaces across the city.
The crackdown, announced by Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki, marks one of the strongest citywide efforts in recent years to restore order and improve Kampala’s appearance.
Beginning this week, KCCA inspection teams will move through different parts of the city identifying buildings that fail to meet standards on painting, paving, cleanliness and frontage maintenance. Property owners found in violation will first be engaged and advised to comply before enforcement action is taken.
Authorities say the operation is backed by Section 57 of the Physical Planning (Amendment) Act, 2020, which requires building owners to maintain structures, install litter bins and comply with lawful directives issued by city authorities.
According to KCCA, premises that remain non-compliant after inspections risk penalties ranging from fines and closure of businesses to imprisonment beginning June 1, 2026.
The campaign will also target illegal encroachment on road reserves and environmentally sensitive areas, practices that city officials say have contributed to Kampala’s growing urban disorder.
Beyond buildings, KCCA says it is also reorganising transport operations, particularly the boda boda sector, through rider registration, designated stages and stricter regulation of operating points within the city.
City leaders argue that the enforcement campaign is necessary to reverse years of deteriorating urban standards marked by poorly maintained buildings, littering and unregulated commercial activity, especially within Kampala’s central business district.
KCCA believes the measures will not only improve the capital’s image but also strengthen compliance with physical planning and public health regulations.
