Did you know that you can actually build a house in Uganda with just sh7 million? It’s true! With the rising urbanization in Kampala and a huge housing deficit nationwide, many people are looking for affordable housing options, and building a studio house seems to be a great solution.
Take Joseph Segawa, for example. He’s a resident of Matugga in Wakiso district and he plans to invest in rental housing units. He owns a 50x70ft plot and wants to build self-contained houses, particularly studio apartments. These compact units are perfect for bachelors and can be an economical and reasonable choice for a first home.
How much does it cost per square meter to build a house in Uganda?
Constructing a house on a tight budget can be challenging but not impossible. David Kireli, a civil engineer, suggests that if you buy a plot on the main road, it’s wise to build rentals on it. Being close to a road can fetch good rent and sales prices, but it’s important to consider the road reserve to avoid any risks of losing your property. Leaving the mandatory two-meter road reserve is crucial.
When it comes to building a studio house, it’s essential to invest in a professional architect. Frank Bbosa, a builder, mentions that the estimated cost for each room depends on factors such as location, plot size, and finances. For a 50x100ft plot, you can potentially have five or six units. However, it’s important to consider the size and layout of each unit to ensure it meets the acceptable space per person as stipulated in the public health regulations.
Zoning regulations also need to be respected, and the design, size, location, and appearance of the plan can influence the success of your project. A typical studio house can have a lounge area with seating, a small table, a bed area, shelves for storage, a TV stand, and even a music system.
How much is needed to build a house in Uganda?
Muhammad Nsereko, a construction expert, advises budgeting for materials procurement, foundation excavation, walling, roofing, plastering, and other necessary components. Let us break down the cost of each unit.
– Foundation: sh2m-sh2.5m
– Walls: sh1m-sh1.5m (including ring beam, cement, sand, and bricks)
– Finishing: sh1m-sh2m (including tiling, painting, and plastering)
– Doors and windows: sh1m
– Roofing: sh2m-sh2.5m (depending on tiles or iron sheets)
Additionally, it’s important to consider electricity and water supply by installing gutters to collect rainwater during the rainy seasons.
Nsereko emphasizes the importance of proper supervision throughout the construction process, from the foundation stage to completion. The size of the room, which typically ranges from 20 to 25 square meters, is determined by the location and the quantity of materials needed. A simple design with fewer columns can be easier and quicker to build.
If you’re planning to embark on such a project, assembling a construction team is crucial. This team usually consists of the project owner, consultants, and a contractor. The owner finances the project, consultants design and supervise it, and the contractor implements the plan. This collaboration ensures the quality and timely delivery of the project.
To avoid any potential issues or shoddy work, it’s important for each team member to understand and efficiently fulfill their role. With proper planning, budgeting, and the right team, you can build an affordable studio house in Uganda within your budget and contribute to alleviating the housing deficit in the country.
