The Government of Uganda has launched a nationwide street and road naming exercise, directing all local governments to officially name every street and road within their jurisdictions by August 30, 2026. The move is aimed at creating a more organised system for identifying locations and improving planning across cities, municipalities, towns and rural communities.
The directive was issued by the Ministry of Local Government following guidance from Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who also serves as Senior Presidential Adviser on Special Operations. Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi said the exercise is intended to strengthen service delivery and improve the management of Uganda’s growing urban areas.Barugahara instructed LC V chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors, town council leaders and sub-county chiefs to ensure that all roads and streets under their administration are given official names before the set deadline.
He said the initiative would help improve emergency response, security coordination, urban development and investment planning.The minister encouraged local authorities to choose names that reflect Uganda’s history, culture and achievements. He advised councils to consider honouring national heroes, traditional leaders, cultural figures, historical personalities and other distinguished Ugandans who have made meaningful contributions to society.Among those recommended for recognition are liberation and resistance heroes, Uganda People’s Defence Forces heroes, former presidents, public servants, scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, sports personalities, artists and individuals who have contributed to community development and national progress.
After approving the names, local governments have been directed to submit the proposed street name lists together with council resolutions to the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government. The submissions must be completed before the installation of official street signs, which is expected to begin by September 5, 2026.
Barugahara said properly named streets will not only make it easier for citizens and visitors to locate places but will also support government programmes, improve business operations and enhance the overall image of communities across the country.The minister further called upon local leaders to combine the street naming exercise with efforts to maintain clean and orderly communities, saying that a clean environment demonstrates responsible leadership, efficient service delivery and respect for citizens.
