The Ugandan government, led by His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has in recent years undertaken significant infrastructure projects aimed at spreading development beyond the congested city centers. While some critics have opposed these initiatives, supporters argue that they are a necessary step to empower communities across the country.
“For a long time, the government has done a lot of good, but of course, like any other government, there are some not-so-good things,” said one commentator. “But critics often choose to ignore the gains that have been achieved.”
Examples of these projects include stadiums such as the newly commissioned Hoima City Stadium and the Aki Bua Stadium currently under construction in Lira. Airports are also being developed, including Kabale International Airport, Kabalega Airport in Hoima, and a proposed facility in Kaabong. Alongside roads and industrial developments, these projects are designed to reduce congestion and promote growth in areas outside Kampala.
Kampala’s city center, originally planned for just 100,000 residents, now hosts over four million people. “By investing in infrastructure in other regions, you empower local communities and reduce the inflow of people into the city center, easing congestion, pollution, overcrowding, and crime,” the commentator explained.
Much of the criticism has come from opposition groups, particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP) and its leaders, including Lutamaguzi Ssemakula and Joel Ssenyonyi. One example is the Coffee Park being built in Ntungamo. Critics questioned why it was not placed in the highest coffee-producing districts. “Ntungamo is in Uganda. Isn’t it a coffee-producing district? We are all Ugandans aiming to live harmoniously and develop together,” the commentator noted.
Similarly, social media critics questioned the location of Hoima City Stadium, arguing that talent was scarce in the area. The response: “Talent can be anywhere. Most of Uganda’s international sports medals have come from the north and east, especially Kapchorwa. Legends like Joshua Cheptegei, Jacob Kiplimo, and Dorcus Inzikuru come from these regions. By placing facilities regionally, we give opportunities to those who may not have easy access to Kampala.”
The commentator also highlighted local sports talent, saying, “Instead of celebrating individual regions, we celebrate Uganda as a whole. Denis Omedi or Ivan Ahimbisibwe may score, and we all celebrate because Uganda has won. That should be the goal: develop together, because we are one before anything else.”
Regional development, they argued, is not only about sports. It also makes essential services more accessible. “Why should someone in northern Uganda travel all the way to Kampala to get a passport or a national ID? Why can’t these areas have their own regional facilities?”
In conclusion, while no government is perfect, the gains of regional development will benefit all Ugandans in the long term. “Some day, President Museveni will be gone, and maybe the NRM will no longer be in power, but the facilities and infrastructure left behind will continue to serve the people. Politicians, especially in opposition, should not oppose for the sake of opposing. Good initiatives should be recognized,” the commentator said.
