Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has instructed local government authorities throughout Uganda to formally assign official names to every street and road in their respective areas.

He specified that these roads and streets should honour distinguished individuals who have made notable contributions to Uganda, the African continent, and global humanity.

Minister of State for Local Government Balaam Barugahara conveyed the directive. He explained that he was passing on guidance from Gen Muhoozi, who serves as CDF and Senior Presidential Adviser on Special Operations.

In an official communication directed to LC V chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors, municipal mayors, town council mayors, and sub-county chiefs, Balaam emphasised that systematically naming roads and streets would enhance service delivery and support better national planning.

“I wish to share the guidance I received from the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Adviser on Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on the importance of naming all our streets and roads in our cities, divisions, municipalities, town councils, and other urban areas,” he stated.

Balaam quoted Gen Muhoozi as noting that well-named streets and roads would “greatly assist in easy location, emergency response, security operations, service delivery, urban planning, investment, and other important national operations.”

He has given all local government leaders until August 30, 2026, to ensure every street and road under their jurisdiction receives an official name.

The guidance recommends honouring a range of prominent figures, such as traditional rulers and cultural leaders, kings, eminent historical personalities, NRA liberation and resistance heroes, UPDF heroes, former presidents, national leaders, and other outstanding Ugandans recognised for excellence in public service, education, science, business, sports, arts, culture, and community development.

Local governments must also submit their approved lists of street names, accompanied by relevant council resolutions, to the Office of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government.

Additionally, they are required to install all street name signs by September 5, 2026.

In the same directive, Balaam called on local leaders to prioritise cleanliness across urban areas. He noted that a clean environment demonstrates strong leadership, effective service delivery, and respect for citizens.