Thu Sep 12 07:36:58 UTC 2024: ## Uganda to Launch Five New Cities in 2025 Despite Ongoing Challenges
**Kampala, Uganda** – Uganda is set to welcome five new cities in July 2025, bringing the total number of cities in the country to 16, including the capital, Kampala. The announcement was made by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija at the National Budget Conference in Kampala.
The five new cities are Wakiso, Entebbe, Kabale, Moroto, and Nakasongola. These additions follow the approval of 15 new cities in 2020, with the first 10 becoming operational in 2021.
While welcoming the development, the move has been met with criticism from some who argue that the creation of new cities is a burden on taxpayers and an ineffective form of decentralization. The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Mr. Mathias Mpuuga, previously expressed concern that existing cities are struggling to manage their finances and function effectively, and that the creation of new cities is a distraction from addressing the issue of devolution.
However, the government has defended the move, stating that the creation of new cities is strategically important, especially in remote areas like Nakasongola.
The chairperson of the Uganda Local Governments Association, Mr. Richard Rwabuhinga, urged the central government to allocate sufficient resources to the new cities. Meanwhile, the mayor of Entebbe Municipality, Mr. Fabrice Rulinda, expressed enthusiasm about the city status, stating that the urban authority is prepared for the transition.
The move to create new cities is part of Uganda’s ongoing efforts to promote urbanization and economic development. It remains to be seen whether the new cities will succeed in achieving their objectives and address the concerns raised by critics.
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