Innovators to explore investment opportunities at real estate expo

Investors, developers, and innovators are to explore investment opportunities, discuss market trends, and showcase sustainable building practices, financial solutions, and new technologies shaping the future of the country’s real estate at the Uganda Real Estate & Housing Expo (UREHE). 

The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, in partnership with Douglas Events Ltd, has organised the expo slated for September 26-28, 2025, at the Kati Kati Grounds, Lugogo, in Kampala.

Lands state minister Persis Namuganza said the expo’s theme is “Resilient by Design, Affordable by Intent: Shaping the Future of Real Estate.”

“There is a housing deficit in Uganda, which stands at approximately 2.4 million units, mostly impacting low-income earners; therefore, there is need for inclusive housing solutions,” remarked Namuganza in a speech that was read by Dave Khayangayanga, the Ag. Director Housing Directorate, who represented her at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala.

According to Namugaza, Uganda's population urbanises at a rapid rate of 5.2% per year, creating a crucial demand for affordable housing and sustainable infrastructure.

She added that the UREHE 2025 serves as a critical platform to unlock real estate potential and ensure a sustainable, inclusive future for all citizens, urging everyone not to miss it.

In his remarks, Douglas Mukwaya of Douglas Events Ltd said the event is a groundbreaking initiative that will transform how Ugandans approach housing and urban development in the country.

“We are honoured to welcome our partners from government agencies, including the Uganda Land Commission and the National Housing and Construction Company; professional bodies such as the Uganda Society of Architects, the Surveyors Registration Board, and UNABSEC and our NGO partners, notably Habitat for Humanity Uganda, for your tireless efforts in championing decent and affordable housing for all,” said Mukwaya.

Mukwaya commended the invaluable support of the private sector partners, whose investments and innovation continue to drive growth in Uganda’s real estate sector.

Uganda’s real estate sector contributes approximately 11% to the national GDP, with growth evident across residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. In the FY 2022/23, the real estate and construction sector accounted for 20.3% of total approved credit—second only to household loans. 

This reflects strong investor confidence and a resilient lending environment, even amid a tightening monetary policy, according to data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).

Mixed-use developments, affordable housing models, and technology-driven construction are increasingly transforming Uganda’s urban landscape. However, housing affordability remains a persistent challenge. 

The high cost of construction materials, reliance on imported inputs, and limited access to green and innovative financing instruments continue to constrain inclusive growth—particularly within the lower-income housing segments.