KAMPALA, Uganda – Kampala Capital City is experiencing a period of significant positive transformation, according to a detailed report from the National Population and Housing Census 2024. The final results, compiled by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), reveal substantial progress in key areas such as literacy, sanitation, and digital connectivity, painting a picture of a city on a positive development trajectory.
The census confirmed that Kampala’s population has grown to 1,797,722, residing in 529,057 households. While this growth presents its own challenges, the report underscores the strides being made to improve the quality of life for its residents.
Education and a Literate Workforce
The report provides a strong indicator of a well-equipped populace for the modern economy. Literacy rates are high, with 85% of individuals aged 15 and above able to read and write. This figure climbs to an impressive 92.2% among the youth population aged 18 to 30. This level of educational attainment is crucial for the city’s future, contributing to a skilled workforce capable of adapting to new industries and technologies.
Advancements in Sanitation and Water Access
Public health and living standards are on a positive upswing. The census data shows that a remarkable 93.3% of households in Kampala now have access to an improved water source. This includes piped water, protected springs, and boreholes, which are vital for preventing waterborne diseases. Similarly, 82.9% of households have access to unshared, improved sanitation facilities, a significant achievement in urban public health management. The report also highlights that open defecation is nearly eradicated in the city, at just 0.5%, reflecting a major success in public health initiatives.
Surge in Digital Inclusion and Media Consumption
Kampala is rapidly closing the digital divide, with a majority of its population now connected. The census found that 73.4% of individuals aged 10 and above own a mobile telephone, while 40.3% of that same demographic reported using the internet. The report also detailed media consumption habits, with television being the primary source of information for 44.8% of households, followed by phone calls (16.1%) and social media/internet (15.8%). This increased access to information is a powerful tool for economic and social empowerment.
Economic Strength and Household Stability
The report further confirms a robust market economy. Just 1.7% of households are engaged in a subsistence economy, indicating that Kampala is a city of commerce and trade where residents actively participate in the broader market. This economic stability is supported by high rates of secure land ownership. The data shows that 81.1% of the adult population has legally recognized tenure rights to their land, a crucial factor in providing long-term stability and confidence for families and businesses.
