By Ambrose Gahene,
NATIONAL
Hon. Judith Nabakooba, the Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, has said Uganda is in dire need of 2.1 million housing Units for her surging population. She made the remarks while officiating as Chief Guest at the Launch of a three days 3rd edition of the Building Expo; dubbed; “3rd Uganda Buldcon International Expo”, which kick started on Thursday, at Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) showground Multipurpose Hall in Kampala.
“Ugandans are in dire need for both residential and commercial housing units, which is why the Government is committed to partnering with the private sector to ensure Ugandans access affordable housing”, she said.
Minister Nabakooba said more than 12 percent of Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is contributed by the Construction Sector.
“The local population is yearning for Investors in Real Estate. We need to display better construction options by putting into place affordable houses and building construction materials”, she added.
Minister Nabakooba in addition, said the building sector is very important as it stimulates other sectors for construction materials, services and is the number one provider of employment for youth in the country.
Mr. Namit Gupta, Futurex Group, a Trade Fair and Events Company, while speaking on behalf of exhibitors, said 2000 exhibitors are expected from India alone. He said this year’s exhibition runs under the theme: “Connect with the Construction Industry to build a better tomorrow”
Mr. Khayangayanga Dave, the Director Housing and Urban Development, called on exhibitors to bring quality services near the people.
“The Construction Sector is key to the development of any Country, which is why we are expecting more than 10,000 visitors for these three days exhibition”, he said.
He called on exhibitors and visitors to utilize this opportunity for networking and marketing of their products.
