By Aggrey Baba
Property mogul Hassan Bulwadda (Hajj) has challenged Kampala leaders to rally behind his proposed UGX400 billion City Square project, arguing that local investors should receive encouragement to transform prime urban spaces into productive assets.
The young billionaire says he expects politicians to embrace the proposal as an opportunity for a Ugandan entrepreneur to deliver a major commercial development in the heart of the capital.
Bulwadda expressed disappointment with the opposition his plan has attracted, suggesting that some critics may be doubting his ability to execute a project of such scale because he is a local investor. He also questioned whether some of the resistance could be driven by jealousy.
“I am a son of this country, and I would expect everyone, especially our politicians, to rally behind me and support this project,” he said during a recent interview on TV.
He pointed to developments undertaken by foreign investors in Uganda, arguing that some have successfully turned underutilized spaces into income-generating facilities. In his view, a Ugandan proposing a comparable investment should also be given a fair opportunity to demonstrate what local capital and expertise can achieve.
Hajj Bulwadda’s plan envisages an eco-friendly commercial complex with a shopping mall, hotel, landscaped greenery, water fountains and extensive parking facilities. He believes the location could become a prominent destination for both Kampala residents and tourists.
His argument is that the proposal should be assessed on its design, feasibility and potential benefits to the city rather than dismissed because of the identity of the person advancing it.
The project has an estimated value of UGX400 billion, but it remains subject to government scrutiny and the relevant approvals.
He has also said he engaged four architects, including professionals from Uganda and South Africa, to develop the plans and help ensure that the eventual construction reflects the approved design.
For him, the project represents both a business opportunity and a test of whether Ugandan investors can receive meaningful support when proposing large-scale developments at home. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
