KCCA cracks down on Centenary Park illegal developments
The authority removed a turf and two other unauthorised structures, whose owners KCCA said they did not know because they did not get the authority's approval.
The authority removed a turf and two other unauthorised structures, whose owners KCCA said they did not know because they did not get the authority's approval. (Photo by Juliet Waiswa)
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As part of the development of the second phase of the Kampala Flyover Project, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has embarked on demolishing unauthorised structures that were being erected along the planned road corridor in Centenary Park along Jinja Road.
The Phase II of the Kampala Flyover Project is expected to begin in January 2027, according to KCCA.
The KCCA Director of Physical Planning, Vincent Byendaimira, said the demolition on July 9 demonstrates the Authority’s responsibility to protect public investments and ensure that private developments do not undermine projects designed to benefit the wider population.
The authority removed a turf and two other unauthorised structures, whose owners KCCA said they did not know because they did not get the authority's approval.
“Kampala’s development must be guided by proper planning. The Kampala Flyover Project is a critical public infrastructure investment, and the authority cannot allow illegal developments to interfere with the approved road corridor,” Byendaimira said.
The demolished structures were facing Jinja Road opposite the former Uganda Electoral Commission.
Byendaimira noted that KCCA's role is to protect the city’s future and ensure that planned projects are delivered without unnecessary obstacles.
Byendaimira emphasised that KCCA’s enforcement actions are not aimed at frustrating development, but to ensure that all developments contribute positively to Kampala’s growth.
“The journey towards becoming a more organised, accessible and modern city requires strict adherence to approved plans and development regulations," he stated.
He said KCCA is demonstrating commitment to protecting public infrastructure and enforcing orderly urban growth.
The enforcement action followed several engagements, warnings and notices issued to the developers, giving them opportunities to comply with city planning requirements.
In February 2026, KCCA issued a notice when the site at Centenary Park had only been graded, and another notice was served in April after construction activities continued without the required approvals.
“We appreciate investment and development in the city, but it must be done responsibly. The approval processes exist to ensure that buildings and structures are safe, properly located and do not conflict with public infrastructure. Building without approval puts both private investments and the city’s development plans at risk,” Byendaimira noted.
According to KCCA, the developers had been notified earlier by our teams. "Before you build, get the necessary approvals. Development must be planned, approved, and compliant," Byendaimira stated.
About the project
According to the Ministry of Works and Transport Senior Communications Officer, Allan Ssempebwa, the Kampala Flyover (Lot 2) comprises the construction of a flyover from Mukwano Road to Jinja Road and vice versa, as well as the road from Mukwano to Yusuf Lule Road and vice versa.
Ssempebwa said it will also involve constructing Yusuf Lule Road to Jinja Road and vice versa. It will also involve widening of Mukwano Road, Jinja Road, and Yusuf Lule Road.
"There will also be widening of walkways," he said, adding that all drainage works within this area will be reconstructed.
The Japanese-funded Phase II, which covers Kitgum House, Garden City, and Wampewo junctions, had its funding confirmed in March 2026. However, the procurement for its main contractor is still advancing, with construction set to begin in January 2027.
Phase II of the Project is estimated to cost $118m (sh434.8b) from the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency.