Kabale Elders Forum Urges Government to Prioritize City Status

Kabale, Uganda – The Kabale District Elders Forum has called on the government to prioritize the operationalization of Kabale City, citing its critical role in driving economic growth and development in the Kigezi region.

The forum, which represents elders from across the district, expressed concern over the recent Cabinet decision to postpone the operationalization of Kabale City, citing budgetary constraints.

The elders argued that city status is essential for attracting investment, creating jobs, and improving service delivery in the region.

They pointed out that Kigezi is among the poorest regions in Uganda, with poverty levels rising from 24% to 27% over the past five years.

The forum highlighted the unique geographical and economic challenges faced by the region, including limited access to large land holdings, lowland areas that are mostly wetlands, and limited access to incentives for farmers.

The elders proposed a strategic vision for Kabale City, positioning it as a hub for business and entrepreneurship, education and healthcare, tourism, mineral and cross-border trade, and infrastructure development.

They warned that delays in operationalizing Kabale City would have serious negative consequences, including economic stagnation, erosion of public trust, political marginalization, and increased insecurity.

The forum requested a meeting with President Yoweri Museveni to present their views and seek his guidance on the matter. They appealed to the President to prioritize Kabale City and ensure its operationalization by July 1, 2025, as originally planned.

The Kabale District Elders Forum remains hopeful that the government will reconsider its decision and grant Kabale its rightful place among Uganda’s operational cities.