The World Bank has approved a $540 million financing to expand access to climate-smart infrastructure, services and jobs in Uganda, APA can report on Tuesday.
The fund will be used to implement the six-year Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development (UCMID) programme that will support 10 cities, 26 municipalities and 13 refugee-hosting districts and directly benefit around 5.6 million people, including 600,000 refugees.
The programme will deliver improved access to essential urban infrastructure and services such as all-weather roads, storm-water drainage, street lighting, public markets and other amenities.
The implementation of the programme through different projects is expected to reduce flood risks, enhance mobility and improve public safety.
Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, World Bank Country Manager for Uganda said: “With Uganda’s urban population projected to more-than-double in the next two decades, it is essential that this rapid expansion translates into productive jobs for a youthful labour force rather than resulting in fragmented urban sprawl and increased informality.
“With UCMID, we are supporting local governments to deliver climate-smart infrastructure that reduces flooding, improves mobility and creates opportunities for youth and women. Importantly, the programme will also strengthen services and livelihoods in refugee-hosting areas so that refugees and their hosts can benefit together from safer, more productive towns and cities.”
MG/as/APA