Kampala's Urban Fabric
Kampala serves as Uganda's capital and largest city, with a population of 1,797,722 as of the 2024 census. The city is administratively divided into five political divisions: Kampala Central, Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa, and Rubaga. Its metropolitan area extends beyond the city proper to include the neighboring Wakiso, Mukono, Mpigi, Buikwe, and Luweero Districts. 1
The city's metropolitan area was estimated to have a population of 6,709,900 people in 2019, covering an area of 8,451.9 square kilometers. In 2015, this metropolitan area generated an estimated nominal GDP of $13.8 billion, which represented over half of Uganda's GDP for that year. 1
Exploring Distinct Neighborhoods
Within Kampala, neighborhoods like Kaleerwe offer a unique perspective on the city's diverse character. Kaleerwe is known for its busy roadside marketplace and residential areas. Due to its lower elevation and proximity to a wetland, the area is susceptible to flooding. 2
Kaleerwe is also closely connected to Bwaise, a neighboring slum to its southwest, with some considering Kaleerwe to be part of Bwaise. The city also features modern developments, such as the Hilton Garden Inn Kampala, which was commissioned in May 2019. 2 3