The Politicization of Urbanization: An Analysis of City Creation in Uganda

Abstract

Urbanisation is a transformative global phenomenon, profoundly shaping societies and economies in the 21st century. In Africa, many governments are actively pursuing the creation of new cities as a strategy to stimulate economic growth, enhance decentralisation, and implement governance reforms. Uganda, aligning with its Vision 2040 strategic development framework, has embarked on an ambitious initiative to transition from a predominantly agrarian economy to a modern, urbanised nation through the establishment of new cities. In 2020, ten new cities were declared by the Ugandan government, with further plans for additional urban centres by 2025, aiming to bolster local economies, upgrade infrastructure, and decentralise administrative functions. However, this initiative has not been without significant contention. Scholarly discourse suggests that political motivations have been a primary driver in determining which towns are elevated to city status, frequently overshadowing genuine developmental needs and economic viability. This politicisation of urban development is not unique to Uganda; studies across sub-Saharan Africa indicate that urban administrative reforms are often influenced by political agendas aimed at consolidating power, securing electoral victories, and manipulating demographic voting blocs. This paper critically analyses the city creation process in Uganda, examining the extent to which political considerations have shaped urbanisation trends and their subsequent impact on governance structures and the efficiency of service delivery. By investigating the interaction between political objectives and urban development outcomes, this research aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities for sustainable urbanisation in Uganda and offers recommendations for a more equitable and development-focused approach to city creation.