The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has defended its decision to acquire additional office space at the newly opened RR Pearl Tower on Yusuf Lule Road in Kampala, saying the move is aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing service delivery to taxpayers.
The new offices will accommodate key departments, including the Large Taxpayers Office (LTO), the Public Sector and Medium Taxpayer Divisions, as well as other specialized units.
Robert Kalumba, URA’s Assistant Commissioner of Public and Corporate Affairs, said the expansion was necessitated by the authority’s growing workforce and the increasing complexity of Uganda’s economy, particularly with emerging industries such as oil and gas.
“We have grown to serve you better and faster,” Kalumba said. “This expansion responds to the growth of companies in sectors like oil and petroleum, which need specialized attention.”
Kalumba revealed that the relocation to Pearl Tower will be implemented in phases to ensure continuous service to taxpayers.
“First to move are the Large Taxpayer Offices, the Public Sector, and the Medium Taxpayer Division. Later, the Risk and Strategy Department and the Petroleum Division will follow,” he noted.
He emphasized that the new location will bring URA closer to its clients, especially those in Kampala’s Central Business District (CBD).
“Being nearer to our clients means more staff, faster service, and greater attention to detail,” Kalumba said.
The expansion follows URA’s recruitment of over 1,000 new employees, mainly within the Customs Department, raising its total workforce from about 2,000 five years ago to more than 3,000 today. Kalumba explained that the URA Tower in Nakawa currently accommodates approximately 1,700 staff, leaving a shortfall of office space for around 1,300 employees.
He also dismissed social media claims that the tax body is paying Shs 18 billion annually in rent for the new Pearl Tower offices, describing the allegations as baseless.
“One of the biggest problems we face is fake news and this is a prime example,” he said.
Kalumba further assured that the procurement of the new office space followed all legal and transparent procedures.
“The contract was awarded to the lowest bidder, following all PPDA rules and regulations,” he emphasized.
