Written by; Edrisa Ssentongo
The members of the Uganda National Association of Builders, Suppliers and Engineering Contractors and its partners, including government representatives and sponsors, have emphasized digitalization and innovation in construction and infrastructure.
The call was made by construction industry experts during the first day of panel discussions at the Uganda Construction and Infrastructure Forum and Exhibition 2026, held at the Kampala Serena Hotel. The forum brought together industry leaders, policymakers, professional contractors, innovators, and other key stakeholders to explore opportunities, address challenges, and discuss ways to advance construction and infrastructure development in Uganda.
UNABSEC, in partnership with the Ministry of Works and Transport and other industry players, including Roko Construction, Uganda Baati, and several other companies, convened the forum. The Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, was represented by the State Minister for Works and Transport, Julius Wandera Maganda, who officiated the event on his behalf.
The members of the Uganda National Association of Builders, Suppliers and Engineering Contractors and its partners, including government representatives and sponsors, have emphasized digitalization and innovation in construction and infrastructure.
The call was made by construction industry experts during the first day of panel discussions at the Uganda Construction and Infrastructure Forum and Exhibition 2026, held at the Kampala Serena Hotel. The forum brought together industry leaders, policymakers, professional contractors, innovators, and other key stakeholders to explore opportunities, address challenges, and discuss ways to advance construction and infrastructure development in Uganda.
UNABSEC, in partnership with the Ministry of Works and Transport and other industry players, including Roko Construction, Uganda Baati, and several other companies, convened the forum. The Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, was represented by the State Minister for Works and Transport, Julius Wandera Maganda, who officiated the event on his behalf.
In his remarks, the Minister emphasized that Uganda needs better infrastructure, rather than simply more infrastructure.
“Uganda doesn’t need simply more infrastructure; we need infrastructure that is better planned, delivered faster, built to the required standards, digitally enabled, financially sustainable, and capable of generating greater value for Uganda,” said Julius Wandera Maganda, the State Minister for Works and Transport.
Speaking about the theme, “Harnessing Digitalisation and Innovation in Construction and Infrastructure Development,” Minister Maganda noted that UCIFE 2026 brings together government and industry stakeholders to translate ambition into practical action through innovation.
The panellists emphasised that digital transformation requires the integration of different platforms, people, processes, and procedures. They noted that digitalisation is not simply about having software in place; rather, it involves ensuring that people, systems, and procedures work together effectively to achieve meaningful digital transformation.
They also highlighted several benefits for companies that embrace digitalisation, including increased efficiency, improved safety, enhanced sustainability, and more effective optimisation of resources.
Across Uganda, many schools, hospitals, and health centres continue to operate in ageing buildings with asbestos roofing, raising concerns about safety and public health. Through the Contractors Run 2026, UNABSEC seeks to mobilise stakeholders to support the phased replacement of asbestos roofing, promoting safer schools, healthier healthcare facilities, and improved wellbeing for communities across Uganda.
Across Uganda, many schools, hospitals, and health centres continue to operate in ageing buildings with asbestos roofing, raising concerns about safety and public health. Through the Contractors Run 2026, UNABSEC seeks to mobilise stakeholders to support the phased replacement of asbestos roofing, promoting safer schools, healthier healthcare facilities, and improved wellbeing for communities across Uganda.
