Examining the limitations of Uganda's National Housing Policy in addressing the housing deficit in Kampala

Abstract

The city of Kampala, Uganda, is struggling with a housing deficit that is compounding each year. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), Uganda had a deficit of 2.1 million housing units in 2022 and there will be need of extra 3 million housing units with given its growth rate of 5.26%. The National Housing Policy of Uganda implemented in May 2016 had a goal to provide a framework that provides adequate housing for all. This research aimed to examine the limitations of Uganda's National Housing Policy (NHP) in addressing the housing deficit in Kampala. The objectives of this study were to determine the factors contributing to the housing deficit, explore the role of different stakeholders in resolving the housing deficit, and identify the challenges hindering the implementation of the NHP in addressing the housing deficit. Data was collected through a mixed-method approach, including a survey questionnaire and interviews with key stakeholders. The findings revealed that factors such as rapid urbanization, limited land availability, and inadequate infrastructure contribute to the housing deficit. The study also found that all stakeholders have a responsibility to collaborate to address the housing deficit. However, the challenges facing the implementation of the NHP include limited funding, inefficient land use, weak legal and regulatory frameworks, and lack of coordination among stakeholders. To improve the effectiveness of the NHP, the study recommends public sensitization, affordable housing schemes, mortgage financing schemes, monitoring and evaluation, strengthening the legal and regulatory framework, collaboration among stakeholders, inclusivity of other stakeholders in decision making, and allocation of more funds to housing.