The Uganda National Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (UNABCEC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, is organizing a commemoration event for their 30-year contribution to the construction industry. The event is scheduled to take place from December 14 to 16, 2023, at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, Uganda, under the theme, “Celebrating UNABCEC’s 30 years of shaping Uganda’s Construction Industry.”
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to attend the celebration, where approximately 500 representatives from the construction industry, including both the private and public sectors, development partners, and civil society, will also participate.
The series of activities planned for this occasion will include a high-level forum with discussions led by thought leaders, experts, and stakeholders from the construction and infrastructure sector. President Museveni will act as the Chief Guest, while Prof. PLO Lumumba will serve as the Keynote Speaker.
The event will feature an exhibition covering various aspects of the construction industry, such as standards and regulations, engineering, architecture, surveying, materials, technology, innovation, heavy equipment, management solutions, real estate, and interior design.
James Olonya, the President of UNABCEC, expressed that this event will offer an opportunity to explore cutting-edge solutions, connect with industry influencers, and engage in discussions shaping the industry’s future.
In addition to the forum and exhibition, the Contractors’ Run 2023 aims to rally industry stakeholders to support improved emergency response assistance for road accident victims. The proceeds from this run will be used to purchase hospital beds and mattresses for selected regional referral hospitals in partnership with the Ministry of Works and Transport.
A Special Souvenir Edition of The Contractor publication will be released, highlighting UNABCEC’s journey, achievements, and contributions to the industry over the last 30 years.
Minister for Transport and Works, Katumba Wamala, stressed the importance of creating resilient infrastructure in light of changing global weather patterns. He emphasized the need to incorporate greenery and environmental considerations during infrastructure development.
He noted that the construction and infrastructure sectors are significant contributors to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), accounting for 12% of the nation’s economic prosperity. Wamala also highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, with a 13% budget allocation for infrastructure projects in the 2023/24 budget. This commitment encompasses various projects, including road construction, the Kampala-Jinja Expressway, affordable housing, and airport expansion initiatives.
Wamala praised UNABCEC for its role in promoting excellence and professionalism in the construction industry, which contributes to its growth and transformation. He encouraged all stakeholders and partners to actively participate in the events, showcasing services, sharing innovations, and seizing opportunities presented by this milestone.