Gulu

Gulu’s Physical Development Plan 2022–2040 was prepared to give the expanding city a clearer spatial structure. The planning process responds to a high share of development in unplanned areas, where growth has increased pressure on existing infrastructure. It translates national and local economic objectives into decisions about where and how urban development should occur.

That framework is now paired with a new national infrastructure programme covering Gulu and other Ugandan cities. The programme targets climate-smart roads, drainage, street lighting and public facilities alongside stronger urban management. For Gulu, this combination is important: the physical plan sets the direction of expansion, while infrastructure investment can connect new and existing neighbourhoods to services. The city’s current agenda is therefore centred on converting rapid growth into more organised, serviced urban development.