By URN
The government has been urged to prioritize finding affordable and decent housing for people in informal settlements, particularly the youth.
Many of the young and old population are drawn to urban centres for opportunities in education, employment, and better services.
Aldo Olwoch, the Acting National Director of Habitat for Humanity Uganda, speaking at the commemoration of the World Habitat Day celebrations in Kamwokya emphasized the pressing need for basic essential services such as adequate and affordable housing, safe water, and clean sanitation facilities.
Olwoch revealed that Habitat for Humanity has partnered with the National Water and Sewerage Corporation to set up 43 water points within the informal settlements in Kampala.
This partnership aims to reduce the cost of safe and clean piped water by 65 percent for a 20-litre jerrycan, ensuring that people in informal settlements pay no more than 100 shillings for water.
Robert Kasolo, the Member of Parliament representing Hikiki County in Budaka District, said that people must have decent places to sleep and live in good housing and environments.
He noted that a large portion of the Ugandan population does not sleep in inadequate housing.
The initiative by Habitat for Humanity seeks to awaken the government to the necessity of providing good and affordable housing facilities for citizens in informal settlements.
Kasolo urged that plans for affordable housing for Ugandans should be factored into the national budget to ensure people can live in better conditions.
Judith Nabakooba, the Minister for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, said that the government is reviewing the housing policy to include the youth in the housing sector and to empower them financially so they can afford to build decent homes.
Nabakooba stated that the government will support the use of local materials in construction by assisting local companies that deal in building materials, thereby lowering the cost of constructing decent houses in the country.
