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Parliament of Uganda Building
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Landmark
The Parliament of Uganda Building, located in the heart of Kampala, is the seat of the country's legislative branch of government. Officially opened on October 5, 1962, just days before Uganda gained its independence, the building stands as a potent symbol of the nation's self-governance and national identity. Its architecture reflects a mid-20th-century modern style, characteristic of public buildings from that era. It features a distinctive clock tower and a main plenary hall where Members of Parliament debate and pass laws. The complex has been expanded over the years to accommodate the growing number of MPs and staff, including the recent development of the new chambers. The building is situated on Parliament Avenue, surrounded by other key government ministries and offices, highlighting its central role in Uganda's administrative fabric. It is not merely a working building but also a historical landmark that has witnessed Uganda's turbulent and progressive history since independence.
- Location: Uganda
- Top sights: The Stride · National Theater · Nakawa Market
- Nearby: Rubaga (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 66 | 148 | 194 | 158 | 63 | 57 | 88 | 117 | 158 | 166 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Parliament of Uganda Building in Kampala is the impressive seat of Uganda's legislature and can be visited through public guided tours. Access is possible for the public via the visitors' gallery during parliamentary sessions.
Typical hours
Public guided tours are typically offered on weekdays from 9 am to 4 pm - advance booking is recommended. During parliamentary recess, access may be limited; exact dates vary yearly.
Photography
Exterior shots of the building are allowed anytime from the surrounding Parliament Avenue. Inside, photography is restricted in some areas - ask your guide about the rules.
Time needed
A guided tour of the parliament building typically lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. Allow an additional 15 minutes for security checks and registration.
Combine with
The building is in the heart of Kampala, right near Uhuru Park and Nakasero Market. Combine the visit with the Independence Monument or the Uganda National Museum.
Getting there
The parliament building is easily reachable by taxi or boda-boda from anywhere in the city centre. Parking is available in the area but usually paid; public transport is a good alternative.
Insider tip
Register at least one day in advance for a guided tour - spaces are limited. Visit the building on a sitting day to experience the lively political atmosphere first-hand.
Geography
Facts
- Officially opened on October 5, 1962.
- The seat of Uganda's legislative branch.
- Opened just before Uganda's independence on October 9, 1962.
- Features a distinctive clock tower.
- Located on Parliament Avenue in Kampala.
- The architecture is of a mid-20th-century modern style.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Parliament of Uganda Building (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the parliament building?
Visits are only possible with prior permission.
Is there an entrance fee?
It is not a tourist facility, so there is no entrance fee.
Is photography allowed from the outside?
Often yes, but stay away from security zones.
What is the best way to get there?
By taxi or boda-boda directly to Kampala city center.
When is the parliament particularly active?
During session periods throughout the week.
Parliament of Uganda Building: where is it located?
Parliament of Uganda Building is located in Uganda.
Parliament of Uganda Building: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Stride, National Theater, Nakawa Market.
Parliament of Uganda Building: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Parliament of Uganda Building: why is it worth visiting?
The Parliament of Uganda Building, located in the heart of Kampala, is the seat of the country's legislative branch of government.
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