President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has signed three new laws aimed at tightening regulation in Uganda’s construction, housing finance and valuation sectors.
The President assented to the Building Control (Amendment) Act, 2025, the Mortgage Refinance Institutions Act, 2025 and the Valuation Act, 2025 at State House Entebbe on February 19, 2026.
The new legal framework targets illegal construction and weak enforcement of building standards. Officials say the reforms will promote safety and accountability, especially in fast-growing urban centres.
The Building Control (Amendment) Act, 2025 introduces stricter penalties for unauthorized structures and non-compliance with approved plans. The law seeks to curb substandard developments that have raised safety concerns in recent years.
The Mortgage Refinance Institutions Act, 2025 grants the Bank of Uganda authority to regulate mortgage refinance institutions. Lawmakers expect the move to strengthen supervision of the housing finance market. The reform also aims to expand access to long-term funding for home ownership.
The Valuation Act, 2025 establishes the Institute of Certified Valuers. The institute will oversee professional standards, registration and regulation of valuers across the country. The law is designed to improve transparency and credibility in property valuation.
Government officials believe the three statutes will streamline oversight in the construction sector, deepen the mortgage market and professionalize valuation services. The reforms form part of broader efforts to support urban development and address Uganda’s growing housing demand.
