The growth and development of Mbarara town, 1900-1999

Abstract

Mbarara town has registered remarkable growth and development in the 20th century, but the real nature of this growth and development has remained shrouded in uncertainty. Similarly, because of the urban sprawl that Is so evident in Mbarara town, it was noted that urban planning was either haphazard or absent altogether. This study set out to examine the nature of the growth and development of Mbarara town from 1900 to 1999 focusing on the factors for growth, the increasing functions of the town, and the role of planning and its implications on the structure of the town. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis were employed. The study made a number of findings. On the factors for the growth and development, the study indicated that the socio-economic infrastructure (social services, roads and buildings, water, electricity and telecommunications, etc.), population growth, political stability, location, the rich hinterland, and historical factors were the most important. On the main functions of the town, the study identified trade and commerce, administration and security. On the role of planning, the study found out that the greatest impetus was given by the 1985 Structure Plan, which gave the guidelines in the identification of different land uses, and the review of land institutional land, the CBD, ownership. However, in spite of the plan, the town growth and development were not without its own setback’s development. Laxity in policy implementation led to many spontaneous Finally, on developments that resulted in urban sprawl. The town's growth model, the study indicated that the growth of Mbarara town followed the Harris-Ullman multiple nuclei model. Basing on the findings of this study, a number of conclusions have been arrived at and recommendations made. These include skills training to enhance efficiency in planning, policy formulation and implementation; designing environmentally conscious plans and programmes; extension of the sewerage system, and provision of adequate public Others include public health education and convenience. Construction/repair of access sensitization programmes; roads to suburbs and by-pass routes for heavy commercial vehicles; provision of low-cost housing; investment in tourism; relocation of industries; and streamlining of the administration.