The National Building Review Board (NBRB) has announced sweeping reforms to Uganda’s building and construction sector following the President’s assent to the Building Control (Amendment) Act, 2026.
The amendments, which came into effect on March 19, 2026, aim to strengthen the regulation, supervision, and enforcement of building standards across the country.
In a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre today, Eng. Flavia G. Bwire, Executive Secretary of NBRB, highlighted that the changes are designed to address persistent issues in the construction industry, including unsafe buildings, illegal construction, and weak compliance with regulations.
“The rapid growth in Uganda’s construction sector has been accompanied by non-compliance with building standards, use of unapproved construction methods, inadequate supervision, and, regrettably, incidents of building collapse resulting in loss of life and property. These amendments are intended to promote safety, order, and accountability in Uganda’s building sector,” Eng. Bwire said.
Under the new law, the membership of the NBRB has been reduced from 16 to nine members, including representatives from key ministries and professional bodies.
Eng. Bwire explained that the revised composition ensures effective corporate governance and streamlined decision-making in matters of building regulation.
The Board’s powers have also been expanded, and it can now hear complaints from any person regarding building operations, issue stop or evacuation orders, impose express penalties, and guide Building Committees on procedural matters.
“Where safety is compromised, the Board now has the authority to intervene directly to prevent loss of life or property,” she added.
Building Committees have also been restructured, with membership reduced from 11 to five technical officers, and their enforcement powers enhanced.
Eng. Bwire noted that previously, Building Committees could order demolition only in writing, but they now have the authority to act decisively, including demolition or evacuation, to safeguard the public.
The amendment clarifies procedures for building permits, complaint resolution, and appeals, and requires strict adherence to the National Building Code.
Innovators are also encouraged to apply for the use of unconventional building methods and technologies, with the process to be defined in regulations.
The law significantly increases penalties for violations, for instance, building without a permit now attracts up to five years imprisonment or fines calculated per square metre of built-up area, while causing accidents in buildings or on construction sites carries fines up to UGX 10 million or 12 years imprisonment, or both.
“The increased penalties are designed to be more deterrent and ensure that all buildings are safe, decent, and in harmony with the environment,” Eng. Bwire emphasized.
The NBRB will now develop regulations to operationalize the amendment, including procedures for demolition, approval of unconventional technologies, and complaint resolution. The National Building Code will also be revised to reflect the amendments.
“All developers, contractors, professionals, and the general public are urged to comply with the law and adhere to approved building standards and procedures. Safe building is key to better living in Uganda,” Eng. Bwire.
