Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has reportedly authorised a plan to redevelop the land occupied by Nakivubo Settlement Primary School in Kampala. The proposal, put forward by businessman Hajji Hassan Bulwadda, involves transforming approximately six acres of land into a commercial shopping complex and a youth and women's skilling centre. This development has garnered attention as the site currently houses one of Kampala's long-serving public primary schools.
Nakivubo Settlement Primary School is one of the established government schools in Kampala, alongside institutions such as Nakasero Primary School, Kyaggwe Road Primary School, and Kitante Primary School. The proposed redevelopment would affect land currently used for public education. Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda revealed that Museveni had directed that individuals involved in alleged fraudulent transfers of part of the school land be investigated and prosecuted if wrongdoing was established.
According to the report, more than 1.5 acres of the school property had allegedly been transferred and titled in the names of rival developers. Kabanda made these remarks during a Thursday inspection of the school premises, which was attended by Bulwadda and journalists from state media. The proposed redevelopment is expected to introduce commercial facilities and a centre intended to provide skills training for young people and women.
However, details about the project's implementation, the future of the school, and arrangements for learners have not been provided. The development comes weeks after another proposal involving Bulwadda attracted attention, this time concerning the redevelopment of Kampala's City Square. Museveni wrote to Kabanda directing her to establish a committee of stakeholders to examine the viability of Bulwadda's proposed $125 million project.
The City Square proposal has reportedly received support from some politicians, government officials, youth representatives, and women's leaders. The Nakivubo school redevelopment plan raises questions about the management of public land, the protection of educational facilities, and the need for transparency before major redevelopment decisions are implemented.
Kabanda expressed concerns about the alleged fraudulent transfers involving part of the school land. The President's directive to investigate and prosecute those involved indicates a serious stance on addressing the issue. The impact of the redevelopment on the school and its students remains to be seen.
The proposed redevelopment of Nakivubo Settlement Primary School land is a significant development in Kampala's education and urban planning sectors. Key stakeholders, including the school community and local residents, will be watching closely as the plans unfold.
Key points
- President Museveni has authorised the redevelopment of Nakivubo Settlement Primary School land into a commercial complex and skills centre.
- The proposed redevelopment has raised concerns about the management of public land and the protection of educational facilities.
- The project involves transforming approximately six acres of land in the Nakivubo area.
