Kampala Lord Mayor-elect Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga has unveiled an ambitious vision for the capital, promising inclusive leadership, strengthened service delivery, and practical solutions to Kampala’s persistent urban challenges.
Speaking to Dalton Kaweesa on NBS Face Off, the outgoing Nakawa East Member of Parliament reflected on the personal experiences and policy priorities that will shape his tenure. Balimwezo, who contested on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, traced his entry into politics to a life-changing accident.
He recounted how, while riding his motorcycle from Luweero where he worked as a town engineer, he was struck near Lugogo Bypass by a speeding vehicle attempting to avoid a pothole.
The crash resulted in the loss of his leg. “I lost my leg because of a pothole in the middle of the road,” he said, explaining that the incident deepened his resolve to improve infrastructure planning and accountability in city management.
Balimwezo highlighted his gradual rise through public service, noting that he has served one term in every leadership role he has held—from youth leadership, LC1 chairperson, Vice Chairperson LC2, Councillor LC5, Mayor of Nakawa Division, to Member of Parliament.
He described this progression as evidence of steady growth and preparation for higher responsibility.
He pledged to build on the work of outgoing Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, emphasizing collaboration over confrontation.
“I will not work in isolation. I know he has done a lot, and I am ready to learn from him,” Balimwezo said.
Currently serving as Shadow Minister for Kampala, Balimwezo stressed the importance of sound budgeting and oversight.
He argued that the Lord Mayor’s role extends beyond politics to planning, policy-making, and enforcement to ensure efficient service delivery.
“Kampala deserves better, and so we need a budget,” he stated.
A central pillar of his vision is changing the civic mindset and fostering shared responsibility. “We have seen people driving luxury cars while littering.
That must end. Everyone is important in the city,” he said, noting that the informal sector contributes significantly to Uganda’s economy and deserves dignified working conditions.
On the contentious issue of street vending, Balimwezo said regulation must be accompanied by viable alternatives.
While supporting efforts by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to restore order, he argued that government must organize proper workspaces for displaced vendors.
He proposed establishing at least three structured markets in every division to enable gradual relocation while maintaining enforcement.
The enforcement drive, initially announced by Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda and implemented by KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki, has sparked debate as traders in established markets push for stricter compliance.
Currently, KCCA operates 17 public markets and 69 privately owned facilities, though several stalls remain vacant amid complaints about affordability and accessibility.
Balimwezo also outlined plans to strengthen municipal services, including improving sanitation.
He said that with proper budgetary support, the city could increase salaries for more than 4,000 cleaners and recruit an additional 1,000 workers within the first year to enhance waste management and curb littering.
Emphasizing unity, Balimwezo said leadership must transcend party lines.
“When you are elected, you become a leader for all irrespective of party, age, or poverty level. I am supposed to serve both the rich and the poor,” he said.
His remarks come weeks after his decisive victory in the Kampala Lord Mayor race.
According to official results, Balimwezo polled 141,220 votes, defeating Moses Kizito Nsubuga of the National Resistance Movement (43,615 votes) and incumbent Erias Lukwago of the People’s Front for Freedom (41,915 votes), among other candidates.
Balimwezo attributed his win to presenting clear, actionable solutions to Kampala’s long-standing challenges.
As he prepares to assume office, he says his focus will remain on building an inclusive city that works for every resident.
