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High raw material costs dominate discussions on Day 2 of NBS Housing Baraza

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High raw material costs dominate discussions on Day 2 of NBS Housing Baraza
The Housing Baraza at Next Media Park

Industry experts and stakeholders highlighted the challenges posed by the rising prices of essential construction inputs like cement, steel, and timber, which have significantly impacted housing affordability.

Day two of the 6th NBS Housing Baraza shone a spotlight on one of the most pressing issues in Uganda’s housing sector: the soaring costs and limited access to raw materials.

Industry experts and stakeholders highlighted the challenges posed by the rising prices of essential construction inputs like cement, steel, and timber, which have significantly impacted housing affordability.

Dorothy Namutebi, Manager of Sustainability at Housing Finance Bank, emphasized that the escalating costs of materials are a primary barrier to the sector’s growth.

“Customers are bearing the brunt, with higher costs translating into unaffordable housing options,” Namutebi noted.

She further pointed out that transport costs compound the problem, limiting access to these materials for builders across the country.

Panelists at the Baraza called for stakeholders to broaden distribution networks to ensure raw materials are readily available and accessible nationwide.

Improved distribution, they argued, would lower costs and foster sustainable housing development by streamlining construction processes.

Collaboration between the government and private sector players emerged as a recurring theme.

Experts urged policy reforms, including revisiting taxation on construction materials and offering incentives to attract investment in local manufacturing and distribution.

The NBS Housing Baraza continues to provide a platform for meaningful dialogue on Uganda’s housing challenges.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that the ideas and recommendations shared during the event would lead to actionable steps to address the housing crisis and promote sustainability in the construction industry.

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