The Society of Physical Planners of Uganda (SPPU) has urged the government to recruit more professional physical planners across the country, citing severe understaffing that has hampered effective urban and regional development.
Speaking during the association’s annual general meeting held in Kampala, SPPU President Charles Nampendo said many districts currently have only one physical planner responsible for managing all planning activities — a situation he described as unsustainable and detrimental to orderly development.
“In some districts, you find only one physical planner who is expected to handle all physical development activities in the entire area,” Mapendo said. “This has made our work very challenging, and we are asking government to support us by recruiting more planners.”
Nampendo emphasised that proper physical planning is essential for sustainable growth, environmental protection, and improved service delivery. He warned that the lack of adequate professional planners has led to unregulated settlements, environmental degradation, and increased flooding in several parts of the country.
“It is time for government to ensure that every local government unit has a qualified physical planner,” he added. “Without proper planning, we risk continued urban chaos, destruction of wetlands, and housing developments in disaster-prone areas.”
Representing the Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development Judith Nabakooba, James Kidega, a Commissioner in the ministry, acknowledged the shortage of physical planners within government structures and commended the association for its continued advocacy.
“We recognise the gap that exists in staffing, and the ministry is committed to working with the Public Service Commission to ensure more planners are recruited,” Kidega said. “Physical planners play a vital role in guiding the country’s development, and their work is central to achieving our national goals under Vision 2040.”
He further lauded the planners for their contributions toward urban management and land use regulation, emphasising that professional planning helps prevent land conflicts, promotes investment, and enhances the quality of life in growing urban centers.
The Society of Physical Planners of Uganda brings together professional planners from both the public and private sectors to advocate for improved urban governance, policy implementation, and adherence to national physical planning standards.
As Uganda continues to experience rapid urbanisation, experts say investing in more physical planners will be key to ensuring organised growth, efficient land use, and environmental sustainability across districts.