Buganda Kingdom has officially kicked off an ambitious plan to transform the historic Kabaka’s Lake into a world-class cultural and tourism hub. We’re talking floating restaurants, hotels, man-made islands, a museum, tourist boats, and more!
Kabaka’s Lake was dug back in the 1880s under Kabaka Mwanga II. Initially meant to serve as a private waterway from Mengo to Munyonyo (yes, royal water Uber), it also doubled as a firefighting reservoir for the reed palace. Over the years, it’s become a chill spot for birds like kingfishers and crested cranes—but now, it’s about to go full Visit Uganda, Explore Buganda mode.
Last Friday, during the groundbreaking for Kabaka’s Lake Road, Buganda Kingdom spokesperson Israel Kitooke dropped the news: the development blueprint is already cooked and ready to serve. He praised KCCA for upgrading the dusty, narrow access roads, saying, “We hope to get more tourists who have to use roads to get here.”
Pastor Robert Kayanja, who’s also partnering in the project, confirmed they’re already digging in—literally. The team has started:
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Clearing soil piles
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Building a drainage system
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Installing a water purification pond
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Prepping for fencing and desilting
What’s coming?
The full vision includes:
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A floating restaurant (because land-based food is so last century)
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A five-star hotel and a two-star hotel
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Man-made islands for chill vibes and selfies
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A Buganda history museum
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Tourist boats for those royal water cruises
Sharifah Buzeki, KCCA’s Executive Director, said the roadworks are part of a broader NRM government plan to modernize Kampala’s infrastructure. The Kabaka’s Lake Road is just one of 24 roads in Phase 1 of this revamp, covering over 14 km. The job’s been handed to Dott Services, with MDW Consulting overseeing.
Even Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago gave the Kingdom props for the initiative, proving this is one of the rare moments when everyone seems to be on the same page.
