KAMPALA, Uganda (UGNEWSLINE) – The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Justine Lumumba, has warned building owners against encroaching on road reserves and misusing approved building spaces, directing businesses operating in basement parking areas to vacate immediately.
Lumumba cautioned property developers and building owners against violating approved building plans, particularly by extending structures into road reserves despite obtaining construction approvals from Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
She urged developers who have encroached on road reserves to stop the practice, emphasising that approval of building plans does not give them the right to alter approved designs or occupy spaces reserved for public infrastructure.
The minister also expressed concern over the growing practice of converting basement parking spaces into shops and other commercial establishments, contrary to the provisions of approved building plans.
She noted that basement areas in approved building designs are specifically intended for parking and should not be converted into commercial premises, warning that such alterations could compromise public safety.
According to Lumumba, Cabinet has directed all businesses operating in basement parking spaces to vacate immediately due to safety concerns as the country prepares for the anticipated El Niño rains.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over urban planning, drainage and building safety, particularly in Kampala, where encroachment on road reserves and unauthorised alterations to buildings could worsen the impact of heavy rainfall.
Lumumba urged building owners to strictly comply with KCCA-approved building plans and ensure that all structures are used for their intended purposes.
She emphasised that developers and property owners must prioritise public safety and adhere to approved construction standards rather than making unauthorised alterations for commercial gain.
