A section of youth under the Association for Youth Excellence for Financial Fitness and Empowerment (YEFFE Uganda) has backed a proposal by businessman Hassan Bulwadda to redevelop part of City Square in Kampala.
The youth said the proposed development could create jobs, improve the appearance of the city and increase the value of one of Kampala’s prominent public spaces.
The support follows a letter reportedly received by President Museveni from Bulwadda on August 18, seeking support for the transformation of part of City Square into an eco-friendly real estate development.
According to the proposal, the development would include a hotel, shopping mall and other commercial facilities.
The youth, led by their chairperson Emmanuel Khaukhia, have called on the relevant authorities, including Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the Ministry for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, to review the proposal in line with the President’s directive.
Khaukhia said the youth supported the proposal because they were more concerned about economic opportunities and employment than opposition to new developments.
“We, as concerned citizens and the youth of this nation, believe in development and we want jobs because unemployment is our biggest challenge in this country,” Khaukhia said.
Tendo Henry, a member and speaker of the Uganda National Students Association, also defended Bulwadda’s proposal, saying the redevelopment could add value to Kampala if properly planned and implemented.
He said the project could contribute to job creation, improve the city’s appearance and promote aspects of tourism.
The youth also cited recent commercial developments in Kampala as examples of projects that initially attracted public concern but later became part of the city’s growing business environment.
They specifically referred to Ham Shopping Mall, saying similar developments should not be rejected before their potential benefits are properly considered.
The group said the focus should instead be on ensuring that any redevelopment of City Square follows the law, protects the interests of the public and is properly planned.
The proposal has, however, attracted opposition from some members of the public and political leaders.
Following reports about the proposed redevelopment, some political leaders and the Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo expressed concern about plans to change the use or character of City Square.
The disagreement has therefore placed the proposed redevelopment at the centre of a wider debate about how Kampala should manage its limited public spaces while also attracting investment.
The youth said they were not opposed to public debate but urged authorities to assess the proposal on its potential economic and social benefits before making a final decision.
They called for KCCA and the Ministry for Kampala to engage all interested parties, including city leaders, residents, investors and youth groups, before deciding the future of the site.
The group said Kampala needs more investment and employment opportunities, particularly for young people, but acknowledged that such developments should be guided by proper planning and public interest.
The controversy is expected to continue as authorities consider the proposal and different groups debate whether City Square should remain in its current form or be redeveloped for commercial purposes.
