STATE HOUSE ENTEBBE: 18 February 2026– In a move to modernize Uganda’s urban landscape and financial infrastructure, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially signed three pivotal pieces of legislation into law. The new laws—the Building Control (Amendment) Act, 2025, the Mortgage Refinance Institutions Act, 2025, and the Valuation Act, 2025—were signed today at State House Entebbe.
The legislative package is designed to heighten safety standards, expand access to home ownership, and professionalize property valuation across the country.
The Building Control (Amendment) Act, 2025 directly addresses the challenges of rapid urbanization by introducing significantly tougher penalties for illegal construction. By enforcing stricter compliance with approved building standards, the government aims to increase safety and ensure greater accountability within the construction industry.
Expanding Access to Housing Finance
To bolster the housing finance sector, the Mortgage Refinance Institutions Act, 2025 grants the Bank of Uganda the authority to regulate mortgage refinance institutions. This regulatory oversight is expected to: Strengthen the stability of the housing finance market, Deepen the mortgage market overall, and Provide homeowners with better access to essential long-term financing.
Professionalizing Valuation Services
The Valuation Act, 2025 introduces a formal structure for the valuation profession by establishing the Institute of Certified Valuers. This new body will be responsible for: Registering and regulating valuers throughout Uganda, and Overseeing and enforcing high professional standards.
A Vision for Urban Development
Government officials expect the combined impact of these laws to streamline construction oversight and support the country’s broader goals for housing growth and urban development. By professionalizing services and tightening regulations, the state aims to create a more reliable environment for both developers and citizens.
