KCCA, ICCIU, holds engagement with private sector players and stakeholders

27 February 2025, 10:21 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

As part of efforts to address the challenges facing the business community in Kampala, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in collaboration with the Islamic Chambers of Commerce and Industry Uganda (ICCIU), held a well-attended meeting yesterday at Serena Hotel in Kampala.

In her remarks, the Executive Director (ED) of KCCA, Ms. Sharifah Buzeki, emphasised the need for collaboration with all stakeholders. “All services provided by KCCA come at a cost. If we are to deliver these services, we must collect taxes, and the collection process must be fair. Currently, our total revenue stands at approximately UGX 120 billion, yet our funding requirement is UGX 812 billion,” she stated.

The ED further stated that for the city to move towards self-sustainability, there is a need to broaden the tax base and improve compliance levels. “People can pay taxes voluntarily, and we have seen this among some of you. Thank you for paying taxes. This enables us to invest in development and financing initiatives, providing financial resources through loans, grants, venture capital, and other investments,” she told the participants.

“Why do some businesses fail before their first anniversary? Why is yours thriving? Why have you remained successful over time? Do we have forums within the business community where such stories can be shared for others to learn from?” she asked.

She concluded by expressing her commitment to partnering with them and seeking their support. “We should work together to build the capacity of others. I sincerely thank you all for attending,” Buzeki said.

Haji Mutaasa Kafeero, a prominent businessman in the city, urged the government to recognise and appreciate those who have made significant investments. “I ask them to show appreciation,” he said.

The Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Hajat Minsa Kabanda, who was the chief guest, thanked ICCIU for the engagement. “We need to work with the people. This city belongs to all of us. The appointment of the Executive Director comes at a crucial time when our city is experiencing rapid urbanisation, infrastructural development, and economic expansion. The task ahead is significant, but we are confident that we shall overcome,” she said.

Adding that such engagements help them understand the challenges people face. “Instead of bribing the authorities to approve your construction plan, come to us, and we shall work together,” she said.

The Mayor of Kampala, Mr Erias Lukwago, also appealed to the participants to cooperate with the city authorities. “We thank ICCIU for this dialogue, as it aligns with our efforts to foster collaboration. There is a significant gap between traders and KCCA, particularly when it comes to tax collection. Our goal is to bridge this gap and strengthen the relationship between traders and KCCA,” he said.

He added that there is a need to establish a network with KACITA Uganda, Bagaga Kwagalana, and other groups to ensure collective progress. “I urge them to support my role and help us address the issue of trade order. The law is very clear—rent increments should not exceed 10% at any given time, yet some property owners continue to violate this,” he said.

In his response, the chairman of Bagaga Kwagalana, Godfrey Kirumira agreed with some of the issues raised. “The Lord Mayor is right but the reason why our members buy stalls in markets is because they have the money to invest. Rashid Sekindi the chairman of UTOF, welcomed the engagement and advised ICCIU to have such engagements in other regions of the country as well.

President of ICCIU, Mayambala Muhammad said that Uganda is among the 57 members of Islamic cooperation and one of the few none Islamic states. He confirmed that the engagements will continue accordingly.