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The construction and infrastructure sector contribute significantly to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), accounting for 12%
Kampala, Uganda | JULIUS BUSINGE | The Uganda National Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (UNABCEC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, is set to commemorate three decades of excellence in the construction industry.
The series of events, scheduled for December 14–16, 2023, at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, will be held under the theme, “Celebrating UNABCEC’s 30 years of shaping Uganda’s Construction Industry.”
The celebration is expected to be graced by President Yoweri Museveni and will witness the participation of 500 stakeholders from the construction industry, including representatives from the private sector, public sector, development partners, and civil society.
The planned activities include a high-level forum featuring thought leaders, experts, and stakeholders from the construction and infrastructure sector. President Museveni will serve as the Chief Guest, and Prof. PLO Lumumba will be the Keynote Speaker.
The exhibition will cover various aspects of the construction industry, including standards and regulations, engineering, architecture, surveying, materials, technology, innovation, heavy equipment, management solutions, real estate, and interior design.
James Olonya, the President of UNABCEC, said, “The twin event provides an opportunity to explore cutting-edge solutions, connect with industry influencers, and engage in discussions that shape the industry’s future.”
In addition to the forum and exhibition, the Contractors’ Run 2023 will mobilize industry stakeholders to support the improvement of emergency response assistance to road accident victims. Proceeds from the run will go towards purchasing hospital beds and mattresses for selected regional referral hospitals, in collaboration 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, urged contractors to ensure the country gets resilient infrastructure, considering the changing weather patterns globally.
He emphasized the need to improve infrastructure to accommodate greenery and environmental considerations during development.
“The construction industry, often referred to as one of the cornerstones of our nation’s development, holds tremendous significance. It breathes life into our infrastructure, fuels economic growth, and provides livelihoods to countless individuals and families across Uganda,” he said, “The construction and infrastructure sectors contribute significantly to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), accounting for 12% of our nation’s economic prosperity.”
Wamala highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, with a substantial 13% allocation in the 2023/24 budget for infrastructure projects. Multiple road construction projects, the Kampala-Jinja Expressway, affordable housing projects, and expansion projects for airports are among the ongoing initiatives.
He commended UNABCEC for its role as a beacon of excellence and professionalism, driving the transformation and growth of the construction industry.
He urged all stakeholders and partners to actively participate in the events, showcasing services, sharing innovations, and seizing opportunities presented by this milestone
