Kampala Division mayors have renewed their demand for greater operational powers under the devolution of authority as they begin a new political term.
The demand comes amid efforts by KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki to devolve some functions to the city’s divisions, particularly allowing them greater involvement in preparing their respective budgets.
However, the mayors say the devolution remains incomplete because final decisions on expenditure from the budgets approved by division mayors and councillors are still handled centrally by KCCA at City Hall.
Speaking to the press, Makindye Division Mayor Hajji Yasin Omar said devolution of powers remains more of a policy on paper than a reality, leaving division leaders with limited responsibilities.
Omar said division mayors should, among other responsibilities, be given direct control over solid waste management, including oversight of companies contracted to collect garbage in their respective areas.
He urged KCCA to fully empower division leaders to execute their mandates and respond more effectively to the needs of residents.
Rubaga Division Mayor Zacchy Mberaze Mawula echoed the call, challenging KCCA to give divisions greater authority over expenditure decisions.
Mberaze argued that division leaders are often better placed to identify spending priorities and determine interventions that would improve service delivery to residents.
The mayors are now calling for a review of the current arrangement to ensure that the devolution of powers translates into meaningful operational authority for the divisions.
By Olivia Nabaggala
3rd Sept 2026
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