parliament 4 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandan MPs Express Concern Over Deteriorating Government Properties in Mombasa
Members of Uganda's Parliament are investigating the poor condition of government-owned buildings in Mombasa, Kenya, following concerns raised by the Auditor General regarding disrepair and unresolved rent arrears. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mps-raise-concern-over-status-of-govt-buildings-in-kenya-5547256
Members of Parliament serving on the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) have voiced serious concerns regarding the dilapidated state of several government buildings in Mombasa, Kenya. During an oversight visit on August 3, 2026, legislators observed that some properties managed by Uganda Property Holdings Limited (UPHL) were in a regrettable condition, exhibiting issues such as broken windows and developing cracks.
These findings are a direct result of concerns highlighted in the Auditor General’s 2025 reports, which pointed to unresolved rent arrears and underutilized government assets. The MPs’ inspection aims to understand the extent of the problem and identify potential solutions.
“We are concerned at the level of repairs at some of these warehouses. We want to investigate further and find out whether it is a question of money to repair and refurbish these warehouses, and then we shall make appropriate recommendations,” stated COSASE chairperson Muwada Nkunyingi.
UPHL, responsible for managing Uganda’s public properties both domestically and internationally, faces scrutiny over significant outstanding rent arrears, notably Shs4.08 billion owed by Unifreight Cargo Handling Limited. This issue has persisted in audit reports since 2022 without resolution. The committee is also looking into abandoned vehicles at the Mombasa Carport, the URA’s delay in auctioning them, and underutilized land in Nyali.
Mr. Wilbert Mugume, Managing Director of UPHL, cited a lack of sufficient funding as a primary obstacle to developing and maintaining these properties. He appealed to the government for approximately Shs50 billion over five years to facilitate necessary renovations and upgrades, anticipating that improved properties would generate better rental income.
The MPs’ investigation is crucial for safeguarding Uganda’s assets abroad and ensuring they contribute effectively to national revenue. The committee plans to make appropriate recommendations after a thorough examination of the situation.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)