Construction industry to award stakeholders for ethical practices, innovations
Nkurunga underscored the sector’s central role in Uganda’s economic ambitions. She noted that the construction industry contributes at least 13 percent to the national GDP - a figure that places it among the country’s most influential growth drivers.
Addressing the media, UNABSEC president Klara Binta Nkurunga, with some members, Kenbert Kanganzi (left) and Danison Blas, as they prepare for the maiden awards ceremony this Friday. (Photo by Titus Kakembo)
_________________
The Uganda National Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (UNABSEC), which brings together more than 450 members from across the country, is set to host its maiden Excellence Awards on December 12, 2025, at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala. The high-profile ceremony is expected to attract top government officials, including Ministers Hillary Onek and Musa Ecweru, alongside contractors, engineers, financiers, and private-sector players.
Speaking during the launch of the awards at the UMA Showgrounds on December 9, UNABSEC President Klara Binta Nkurunga underscored the sector’s central role in Uganda’s economic ambitions. She noted that the construction industry contributes at least 13 percent to the national GDP - a figure that places it among the country’s most influential growth drivers.
“If the government hopes to achieve the $500 billion GDP dream, the wheels of this industry must run smoothly. A modern economy needs infrastructure, engineers, equipment, and hospitality structures. These are the backbone of tourism, transport, ICT, mining, and every sector that depends on mobility, connectivity, and quality facilities. This is our business - and it must be supported.”
A photo moment for UNABSEC president Klara Binta Nkurunga some members as they prepare for the maiden awards ceremony this Friday. (Photo by Titus Kakembo)
The upcoming awards aim to celebrate excellence, professionalism, innovation, and ethical practice within the construction sector. They will recognise companies and individuals that have demonstrated outstanding performance in project delivery, workplace safety, sustainability, and capacity-building.
According to Nkurunga, the awards are more than a symbolic gesture - they are intended to elevate industry standards, foster healthy competition, and remind contractors of their responsibility to deliver quality work that strengthens public trust.
The ceremony is expected to become an annual event, providing a platform for showcasing Uganda’s construction capabilities at a time when the country is experiencing rapid expansion in public infrastructure, real estate, manufacturing zones, and energy projects.
As stakeholders prepare for the red-carpet evening at Imperial Royale, UNABSEC hopes the awards will spark a wider national conversation on accountability, professionalism, and investment in a sector that builds not just physical structures, but Uganda’s economic future.