Construction has begun on Haruna Towers Nakasero, a proposed 16-floor development in Kampala, Uganda, that aims to significantly alter the city’s skyline and signal a new phase of economic ambition. The project, spearheaded by Ugandan developer Haruna Sentongo, is projected to reach approximately 120 metres in height, potentially becoming one of the tallest privately-owned structures in the nation.
Located in the central Nakasero district, a hub for commerce and trade, Haruna Towers is designed with a focus on both functionality and architectural impact. Plans indicate floor slabs will measure between six and seven metres, with beams reaching up to two metres in height, accommodating advanced structural and service systems. This design prioritizes flexibility for tenants and a prominent presence on Kampala’s skyline.
For decades, Kampala’s urban landscape has been defined by mid-rise buildings and trading arcades. This new development represents a departure from that pattern, reflecting a shift towards vertical growth. According to industry observers, the tower is intended to serve as both a psychological and economic benchmark, demonstrating Uganda’s capital’s aspirations beyond its traditional horizontal expansion.
The project is occurring as Kampala experiences increasing pressure on land availability in prime districts, driving the economic rationale for vertical development. Uganda’s urban population continues to grow, particularly in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, further justifying the need for increased density. The estimated cost of Haruna Towers is UGX 202 billion (approximately USD 55-62 million), a substantial investment backed by tenant demand and investor interest.
Even as Kampala is now pursuing greater verticality, other East African capitals have already embraced high-rise construction. Nairobi’s Britam Tower, reaching 200 metres, and the Global Trade Centre Office Tower (184 metres) exemplify Kenya’s established high-rise culture. Kigali, Dar es Salaam, and Lagos also present regional examples of expanding skylines.
Haruna Sentongo, the developer behind the project, has a track record of reshaping Kampala’s commercial landscape through previous developments including Haruna Towers Ntinda, Wandegeya Complex, and Nakayiza Market. His company, Haruna Enterprises, is funding the project through a combination of tenant commitments and investor capital.
The architectural design features two sleek, glass-clad towers, intended to maximize natural light and create a modern aesthetic. The project’s location at the junction of Wilson Road and Arua Park places it at the heart of Kampala’s regional trade and transport network, with thousands of traders and businesspeople passing through the area daily.
Structural considerations for a 120-metre tower in Kampala are significant, requiring deep foundations, lateral stability systems, and efficient vertical transport solutions tailored to the city’s specific wind patterns and soil conditions. Fire safety, mechanical ventilation, and circulation planning are also central to the project’s successful execution.
The economic impact of Haruna Towers extends beyond its immediate construction. Analysts suggest the tower’s height could influence land values in the surrounding area and attract further investment, potentially catalyzing the development of Kampala’s first true high-rise cluster. However, market risks, such as potential under-occupancy of commercial floors, remain a factor.
As construction progresses, the project is being closely watched by investors and developers, signaling a potential shift in Kampala’s urban development trajectory. The tower’s success could pave the way for further high-rise projects and redefine the city’s architectural identity.