The Titular Head of Muslims in Uganda, Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu, has urged national planners to intensify investment in rural and peri-urban communities, warning that the continued concentration of major development projects in Kampala is worsening congestion and deepening inequality.
Nakibinge made the remarks during the launch of a new specialised centre for children with disabilities in Busunju, Wakiso District. The facility was constructed under Kibuli Muslim Hospital with support from Baitulmaal, a U.S.-based humanitarian organisation.
He commended the partners for choosing to set up the centre outside Kampala, saying the decision aligns with the broader goal of promoting equitable national development.
“Although the project partners could easily have set up the centre in Kibuli, where most Muslim-founded institutions are situated, there was a deliberate decision to establish it outside the capital to promote balanced development,” he said.
Nakibinge stressed that Uganda’s development agenda would be more meaningful and inclusive if government planners prioritised underserved areas where the need for essential services remains high.
“We must reduce the pressure of development in Kampala and begin moving these initiatives to places that have been left behind,” he added.
The Prince also applauded Hajji Dauda Kamya, who donated the land for the project, describing the gesture as an example of community-driven development that should inspire more Ugandans to support initiatives in their localities.
At the same event, Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) Chairperson Sofía Naluke Jjuuko urged parents and guardians to stop discriminating against children with disabilities. She said children living with disabilities can become productive adults if given proper care and support.
Jjuuko revealed that the Commission has issued mandatory guidelines requiring all government ministries, departments and agencies to budget for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Failure to comply, she warned, could lead to rejection of their budgets.
“This law ensures that government planning processes are inclusive and that no child or adult living with a disability is left behind,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of Kibuli Muslim Hospital, Muhamoud Al Ghazal said the project reflects a responsibility all Ugandans should embrace—providing opportunities and essential services to the most vulnerable. He noted that the new centre will help bridge existing gaps in specialised care, training and rehabilitation for children with disabilities.
He also urged parents, especially expectant mothers, to prioritise antenatal care and regular medical check-ups, noting that many childhood disabilities arise from preventable complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Al Ghazal added that once completed, the centre is expected to become a model for disability inclusion, community-based rehabilitation and equitable development outside the capital.
The new facility marks a significant step toward decentralising health and social services and is expected to spur further development in Busunju and neighbouring communities.