Uganda's Housing Deficit — The Numbers
The 2024 National Population and Housing Census confirmed a shortage of approximately 2.6 million housing units, with 300,000 new units needed every year. At least 60% of Ugandans live in informal settlements or inadequate housing. For developers, this deficit represents an enormous market opportunity — particularly in affordable and middle-income housing segments.
Residential Development Regulatory Requirements in Kampala
- Physical planning approval from KCCA confirming zoning compliance
- Building permit from KCCA with approved architectural and structural drawings
- Environmental Impact Assessment for large developments or near wetlands
- NWSC connection approval for water and sewerage
- Umeme electricity connection approval
- Certificate of occupancy from KCCA before any occupation
Uganda Mortgage Market 2026
- Key banks offering mortgages: Housing Finance Bank, Stanbic, dfcu, Centenary, Absa
- Typical mortgage terms: 10 to 20 years
- Interest rates: 18 to 24% per annum in Uganda shillings
- Loan-to-value ratio: typically 70 to 80% of property value
Affordable Housing Programmes Uganda
- National Housing and Construction Company (NHCC): government entity developing affordable housing and partnering with private developers
- Uganda Mortgage Refinancing Company (UMRC): new institution created to refinance bank mortgage portfolios and reduce end-user rates
💬 Planning a housing development or construction project in Uganda?
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