Kampala, Uganda — The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially commenced the construction of its permanent headquarters in Lweza-Lubowa, Wakiso District, marking a significant development in Uganda’s electoral infrastructure. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who officiated the event, signaling the start of a new era for Uganda’s electoral services.
A New Era for the Electoral Commission
The new EC headquarters will be built on over 10 hectares of land, providing ample space for a variety of facilities that will enhance the Commission’s operational capacity. The permanent headquarters will house secure warehouses for electoral materials, office spaces, conference facilities, a media center, and staff accommodation. The decision to build this facility comes after the EC operated from temporary offices since 2022, following its move from the Jinja Road offices to make space for the Kampala Flyover construction project.
Addressing the Need for Space
The EC has long faced challenges with space limitations, hindering its ability to efficiently manage electoral activities and processes. The new headquarters will remedy these issues, offering a purpose-built facility designed to meet the growing needs of the Commission, especially as Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections.
Prime Minister Nabbanja, in her speech, emphasized that regular elections are now an integral part of Uganda’s governance and that the new headquarters is a fitting milestone in the country’s commitment to democratic growth. She also celebrated the building as a testament to the country’s desire to improve its electoral processes.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The new EC complex will feature cutting-edge technology to ensure efficiency and security in managing Uganda’s elections. Some of the facilities planned include:
- A printery for producing ballot papers locally
- A modern nomination center for candidate submissions
- An ICT hub to manage election data
- A hospital offering emergency medical services
- Training halls and a press center for international election observers
The headquarters will also offer hotel facilities to accommodate international election observers, making it a central hub for both national and international stakeholders in the electoral process.
Government and International Collaboration
The construction of the EC headquarters is being carried out with support from the government of Uganda and China Construction Company Limited, which will handle the physical construction work. The National Housing and Construction Company Ltd (NHCC) is overseeing the project.
The facility’s location, near the Entebbe Expressway, ensures easy access to key transportation routes, a critical factor for the Commission’s operations. The new building will allow the Electoral Commission to consolidate its various departments into a single location, enhancing coordination and reducing operational delays.
A Step Toward Self-Sufficiency
The move to a permanent headquarters reflects the government’s commitment to self-sufficiency and reducing operational costs, such as rent. Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, commended the Electoral Commission for leading by example and investing in infrastructure that will improve services and ensure cost-effectiveness.
“This project will raise the Electoral Commission’s visibility and inspire other government institutions to follow suit,” Mao stated.
Conclusion
The groundbreaking of the Electoral Commission’s new headquarters is a positive development for Uganda’s democratic processes, signaling a long-term investment in the country’s electoral infrastructure. With the facility’s advanced technological features, secure storage, and improved operational efficiency, it will play a key role in strengthening democracy in Uganda. The EC’s new headquarters is not just a building but a commitment to service, innovation, and democratic growth.