Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo has called for stronger collaboration between city authorities and engineering professionals to support infrastructure development, improve public safety and enhance service delivery in Uganda’s capital.
The call was made during a courtesy meeting at the Lord Mayor’s office with officials from the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE), led by its president, Eng. Peterson Mwesige.
The meeting focused on how the engineering fraternity can contribute technical expertise and professional support to Kampala’s development agenda amid rapid urbanisation and growing infrastructure demands.
Engineer Balimwezo welcomed the engagement, describing it as an important step towards building partnerships that can help address the city’s current challenges while preparing for future growth.
“Kampala is the heartbeat of Uganda and hosts some of the country's most important institutions and services. For the city to develop sustainably, we need professionals and strategic partners who can help us address existing challenges and plan for the future,” Balimwezo said.
He stressed that engineers have a critical role to play in ensuring infrastructure projects are implemented professionally and safely.
“I have always maintained that Kampala needs engineers. This partnership presents an opportunity to tap into professional expertise that will help improve infrastructure, reduce accidents, and enhance service delivery for residents. We are optimistic that this cooperation will yield tangible results,” he added.
The Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers, which brings together engineers, technicians and technologists from across the country, pledged its commitment to supporting Kampala’s transformation efforts.
Speaking after the meeting, UIPE President Eng. Peterson Mwesige said the visit was intended to congratulate the Lord Mayor and explore areas where the engineering profession can support the city’s development priorities.
“UIPE is the professional voice of engineers in Uganda, representing more than 12,000 members through eight regional branches. We came to congratulate the Lord Mayor and reaffirm our readiness to support the city in achieving its development goals,” Mwesige said.
He noted that many projects being undertaken by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), including roads, drainage systems, energy infrastructure and other urban development initiatives, require professional engineering expertise.
“During the Lord Mayor's campaign, he emphasized the need for engineering solutions in Kampala. We believe engineers have a responsibility to contribute to the transformation of the city through innovation, technical guidance, and professional support,” he said.
The discussions also covered the proposed urban railway project, with UIPE expressing willingness to provide technical expertise and skilled personnel to support its implementation.
“Modern cities require efficient transport systems. Engineers are prepared to contribute knowledge and technical support to initiatives such as the proposed train project, which has the potential to ease congestion and improve mobility within Kampala,” Mwesige said.
The meeting further addressed concerns over recurring building collapses reported in different parts of the country. Mwesige attributed many of the incidents to failure by some developers to engage qualified professionals and adhere to construction standards.
“Investigations are usually conducted whenever buildings collapse. In many cases, the challenge stems from non-compliance with professional standards and construction regulations. Uganda has laws that provide for accountability; what is needed is consistent enforcement to ensure compliance,” he noted.
Both parties agreed on the importance of sustained engagement between city leaders and professional bodies to promote safe, sustainable and modern urban development.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to strengthen cooperation between Kampala City leadership and the engineering fraternity, with both sides expressing confidence that the partnership will contribute significantly to the capital’s long-term growth and transformation.