A Call to Honor Dr. Hamis Kiggundu on Uganda's 63rd Independence

Category: Economics
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As Uganda celebrates its 63 years of independence today, 9th October, the nation reflects on the patriots and visionaries who are actively shaping its future. Among these distinguished figures is businessman and philanthropist, Dr Al Hajj Hamis Kiggundu, whose multifaceted contributions to the economy, sports infrastructure, and urban development have sparked a national conversation about recognition and honour.
 
 
Dr.Kiggundu's impact is most tangibly felt in the thousands of livelihoods his enterprises support. Through his Ham Group of Companies, a multinational industrial conglomerate, he employs over 7,000 Ugandans across diverse sectors, including real estate, agribusiness, and logistics. 
 
 
A significant current project is the ambitious renovation of the Nakivubo Channel in Kampala. This vital initiative is not only aimed at solving the city's chronic flooding issues but is also a major source of employment, providing jobs for thousands of Ugandan workers on-site. 
 
Beyond construction, Dr. Kiggundu has built a reputation for supporting Ugandan traders. He has previously demonstrated his commitment by offering a six-month rent-free grace period to vendors relocated to his properties and donating substantially to help traders rebuild their businesses, ensuring peaceful and stable working conditions for small-scale entrepreneurs.
 
 
One of Dr.Kiggundu's most visible legacies is the spectacular transformation of the Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium into the modern Hamz Stadium . Undertaken following a 2015 presidential directive, this public-private partnership expanded the stadium's capacity and introduced world-class facilities, including floodlights and digital screens.
 
 The project provided employment for over 4,000 Ugandans during its construction phase. The stadium's success has been monumental, culminating in its official commissioning by President Museveni in April 2024 and its selection to host matches for the prestigious 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, an achievement that has restored Uganda's pride on the international sports stage .
 
Diversified Investments for National Growth
The Ham Group's influence extends far beyond Kampala.Dr. Kiggundu has diversified into critical sectors of the economy, most notably with a US$156 million Integrated Agro-Processing Industrial Plant (IAIP) in the central region. This initiative is designed to add value to Uganda's agricultural produce, boost exports, and support the country's farmers. 
 
His ventures also span premium residential projects like Ham Palm Villas, and plans for Ham Agro Bank Ltd, a financial institution intended to provide tailored support to the agricultural community.
 
 
Dr.Kiggundu's commitment to Uganda is also reflected in his strategic philanthropy. He has donated UGX 530 million to support the government's COVID-19 vaccination drive and contributed UGX 200 million to power the Kampala City Festival, rallying other business leaders to give back to the community. 
 
His efforts have not gone unnoticed; in February 2024, he received the Special Presidential Recognition Award from the Minister for Kampala Capital City Authority and Metropolitan Affairs, honouring his significant contributions to the city's social and economic development.
 
 
With a proven track record of job creation, infrastructure transformation, and compassionate business practices, Dr. Al Hajj Hamis Kiggundu has undoubtedly etched his name as a key builder of modern Uganda. 
 
As the nation marks 63 years of self-rule, many are of the view that conferring a national medal upon him would be a fitting tribute, celebrating a son whose private investments have yielded profound public benefit.
 
Reported by kyambadde lawrence for Salt media news, Kampala.
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Kyambadde Lawrence

Kyambade Lawrence is a journalist with extensive experience in covering community stories, using his deep understanding of local issues to create impactful narratives. His ability to connect with the community and capture the essence of their experiences makes his stories resonate deeply with audiences, often sparking meaningful change and awareness. With a genuine commitment to highlighting the voices of those in his community, Kyambade’s work goes beyond reporting—his stories inspire action and foster a sense of connection, truly making a difference where it matters most.

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