The much-anticipated Valuation Court sessions have commenced in Makindye Division, targeting the resolution of over 1,800 property tax-related issues.
The inauguration event, hosted at the Makindye Division headquarters, was officiated by Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and chaired by Samuel Muyizi Mulindwa, head of the Valuation Court.
The Valuation Court serves as a judicial body established to handle property tax disputes, holding authority comparable to that of a Magistrate’s Court. It offers property owners a balanced and impartial avenue to address concerns, ranging from valuation disagreements to requests for tax exemptions.
Muyizi emphasized the Court’s commitment to a “people-focused” approach to ensure justice in property tax matters, affirming that “property rates are essential for Kampala,” and the Court will strive to maintain fairness in the valuation process.
Property rates have emerged as a vital income stream for the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), contributing UGX 56 billion of the UGX 115 billion collected citywide in the 2023/24 fiscal year. Representing KCCA Executive Director Frank Rusa, Acting Revenue Collection Director Ezra Ssebufu commended Makindye’s efforts, noting a consistent rise in property tax revenue, with UGX 16 billion generated in the 2023/24 fiscal year.
MP Allan Ssewanyana (Makindye West) praised the Valuation Court’s efforts, stressing the importance of educating residents on property rates. He urged local leaders, especially LC I chairpersons, to ensure fairness and end the practice of charging residents for support letters related to their cases. MP Derrick Nyeko (Makindye East) welcomed the Court’s local operations, describing it as “a positive step that makes justice accessible to the people.”
The Court will now begin examining objections from property owners dissatisfied with their valuations, with the authority to adjust tax rates based on evidence presented. The Valuation Court’s decisions are binding and can only be contested in the High Court, underscoring the credibility of the process.
Local leaders and representatives, including Kampala Woman MP Shamim Malende, KCCA Authority Speaker Zahara Luyirika, and Makindye Division Speaker Charles Luba Lwanga, expressed their support. Representatives from the Buganda Kingdom were also present, advocating for equitable taxation. They emphasized the importance of fair property valuation for justice.
The launch of Valuation Court sessions in Makindye signifies a major advancement in Kampala’s property tax system, empowering residents to resolve disputes locally and fostering a more transparent taxation process.
