Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Hajjat Minsa Kabanda has challenged newly elected Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) councillors to put political differences aside and prioritise the interests of city residents.Kabanda made the remarks on Tuesday while opening a three-day induction programme for the new KCCA Authority Council at Imperial Golf Course Hotel in Entebbe, urging the councillors to build a strong working relationship with the Authority’s technical leadership.
She said the new political leadership must focus on practical challenges affecting Kampala, including poor roads and drainage, garbage management, market organisation, business regulation and the safety of pedestrians, motorists, cyclists and public transport users.Kabanda warned that conflict between political leaders and technical officials could undermine service delivery, stressing that the two arms of KCCA have different but complementary responsibilities and must work together with mutual respect.She called on councillors to establish a culture of consultation, professionalism, teamwork and accountability from the beginning of their term, saying ordinary residents should remain at the centre of every decision made by the Authority.
Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Nsubuga Balimwezo also urged councillors to familiarise themselves with the laws, budgets and mandate governing KCCA, saying informed leaders are better positioned to provide effective oversight and contribute to the city’s transformation.KCCA Deputy Speaker Olive Namazzi called for respectful debate within the Council, saying councillors can disagree on issues but must never lose sight of the people they represent. She challenged them to ensure that council decisions translate into visible improvements in communities rather than remaining promises on paper.
KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki said the induction is intended to strengthen cooperation between the political and technical arms of the Authority. The programme is covering KCCA’s legal and governance framework, planning and budgeting, oversight responsibilities and key city priorities, with the ultimate goal of creating a united leadership capable of delivering a functional, inclusive and well-managed Kampala.
