As Uganda gears up for the 2026 general elections, the Electoral Commission (EC) has received a significant boost with the acquisition of a permanent home.
The National Housing and Construction Company Limited has officially handed over a 10-acre piece of land in Lweza–Lubowa, valued at approximately Shs15 billion, to the EC.
While the land has been allocated, National Housing CEO Eng. Kenneth Kaijuka noted that the full payment of the Shs15 billion has not yet been completed.
Speaking during the handover ceremony on Friday, September 19, 2025, Kaijuka said the land has been developed to host the upcoming presidential nominations scheduled for September 23 and 24. This is part of the project’s first phase which includes the completion of a perimeter wall, parking space, pedestrian walkways, restrooms, installation of CCTV cameras and ICT Centre, and lighting among others civil works.
“We expedited the work to ensure that the venue is ready for presidential nominations. I can confidently say the site is technically and professionally prepared,” he added.
According to Kaijuka, the current phase, referred to as the “symbolic phase” will be used for nominations and then handed back to National Housing for further development ahead of tallying activities next year.
Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, welcomed the new development, describing it as a major milestone in strengthening Uganda’s democratic institutions.
“This venue is not just a temporary site for nominations; it is a significant step toward establishing a permanent home for the EC. We thank the government for committing to fund this process. It shows a strong commitment to nurturing democracy in Uganda,” he said.
Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, also applauded the development. He noted that the EC could no longer use Namboole Stadium due to its closure for AFCON preparations, necessitating a more permanent and suitable location.
“The environment here is more conducive than previous venues like Kyambogo. I believe the electoral process will now be managed more efficiently,” he observed.
He urged the Uganda Police Force, particularly the traffic department, to begin detailed planning for traffic management in and around the Lweza-Lubowa area.
He emphasized the importance of respecting each citizen’s right to participate in the democratic process without fear or violence.
