Kampala has unveiled a UGX 47 billion (USD 24 million) Traffic Control Centre, the first of its kind in East Africa, in a move city leaders say will transform transport management, ease congestion, and reduce emissions.
The new centre, funded through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is linked to 30 major intersections and will deliver real-time traffic monitoring, generate critical planning data, and support agencies such as the police in enforcement. 
Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, State Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, said the project provides a practical response to the capital’s transport challenges.
“This center supports government programs on mass transportation and will go a long way in reducing emissions and improving the quality of life for city dwellers,” he noted.
The Japanese Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Takuya Sasayama, described it as a timely solution for a city under strain from rapid growth.
“Waste management, transport, pollution, these are multifaceted problems. At least, for traffic, part of the answer is here. I thank the police for their work, and I hope this facility makes their efforts much easier,” he said.
KCCA Executive Director, Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, positioned the centre as a milestone in Kampala’s journey toward becoming a smart, livable city.
“Connected to 30 intersections across the city, this system will monitor and manage traffic in real time. It is not only for KCCA but also for our partners in the police, researchers, and traffic managers. We are committed to operating it to the highest standards, expanding it, and eventually integrating artificial intelligence,” she said. 
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago called it a symbol of modern Kampala.
“This project will reduce emissions, enhance enforcement capacity, and make transport management more efficient. We must celebrate this achievement and thank the government of Japan,” he remarked.
JICA Representative Yoichi Inoue stressed that the facility should serve as a model for the region.
“Traffic congestion affects productivity and increases pollution. This facility is a model for the region, and I humbly request that future projects be integrated into this one to maximize impact,” he said.
Uganda’s Engineer-in-Chief, Eng. Stephen Kitonsa, added that the centre brings cutting-edge tools such as data-driven traffic models and modern monitoring systems that will improve safety and efficiency.
By planting trees at City Hall after the launch, leaders symbolically tied the project to Kampala’s broader goal of building a greener, more sustainable city.
