There is something fairly new in town—bedspace. In the grand scheme of things, it isn’t really new. If you have heard of it, you must have come across a TikTok video or watched some Ugandan Bed space series on YouTube. If not, you’ve likely experienced it without realizing it. Sharing a room with siblings, each with their bed—or even squeezed three into one. In school, you indirectly paid for bedspace through boarding fees. Later, you might have encountered it at university or while living with friends. It’s all bedspace.
If you are considering bedspace as an accommodation option here are a few things to take note of.
Understanding bedspace
Bedspace is a shared shelter arrangement where multiple tenants occupy a single room, each with their own bed, typically in a limited space. According to a legal response by a Filipino lawyer, bedspace involves renting out a portion of a room (keyword: portion) to an individual for a fixed fee. Just imagine it as your stomach on Christmas day, well-equipped to accommodate multiple dishes in a limited space. In the bedspace system just like the stomach, there will be signs of discomfort before everything turns into a mess, or before relief is administered.
This term is commonly used by individuals who have worked or are working in the Middle East, particularly in places like Dubai/UAE, as bedspace is the cheapest and most convenient option for workers there.
Where can I find a bedspace in Kampala?
In Uganda, bedspaces have begun to mushroom all over because of the growing need, however, not many of them are as well-known as the one in Nansana, Masitowa. An all-female bedspace that seems to be currently dominating the bedspace industry. In Wandegeya, you may also find some bedspaces to rent.
Pros of Bedspace
If you are on a budget, bedspace is a practical consideration. Backpackers, hostels and flat share fall under this category. Shared accommodation allows for the sharing of utilities like water and electricity. For prolonged stays, the relief from paying utility bills is felt immensely.
Bedspace suits students and workers on the move. It’s also a great option if you’re travelling and need a place to rest for the night or simply looking to cut costs, especially when compared to the higher rates of lodges and hotels.
Cons of Bedspace
Sharing bedspace with strangers can be tedious, uncomfortable, and sometimes outright disgusting. Most strangers won’t give a damn unless you so happen to share space with considerate strangers (which is highly unlikely). Their business becomes your business and your business becomes theirs. Privacy is elusive, with only a bedsheet or curtain to give you a whisper of it.
If you have a child, bedspace isn’t a suitable option. If you were considering it, it’s best to stop.
The lights above your head are controlled by everyone else in that shared space, they aren’t yours to switch off or on at will. The bathrooms and toilets are shared. Just imagine how nasty they can get if your roommates are the negligent type.
In such a space you might be raped, or molested, and unfortunately, no one may intervene. You call the police and the first question Were you forced to come and live here….? If you answer no, brace yourself for the insensitivity that often follows.
A lady shared her experience of how her roommate, in a drunken state, confessed that if he weren’t married, he would have already raped her. She immediately relocated from that bedspace. It’s advisable to flee at the first sight of danger, as living in such an environment involves accepting the risks that come with it. While some bedspaces are exclusively for females or males, this division can help reduce the threat to some extent. However, it still doesn’t protect you from sexual assault (or any other form of assault).
Theft is prevalent, so your safety and the security of your few valuables are not guaranteed. A TikToker pointed out how bad blood among roommates is inevitable. Someone might randomly start disliking you for no reason, or your perfume might spark jealousy. These small issues can quickly escalate into full-blown conflicts in the confines of your congested living quarters. This puts your life at risk and will most certainly make your stay unpleasant.
Bedspace isn’t a viable long-term option, even though it may be cheaper.
Bedspace Price range in Kampala
Prices range from UGX 3,000 to 30,000 per day, depending on the quality of the space.
The better the space, the higher the cost; the more congested the space, the cheaper it is. Additionally, lower bunk beds/deckers are generally more expensive than the upper ones.
Bedspace is a smart solution to the rising cost of living in Kampala. However, when considering it, keep your eyes wide open, lest you miss the red flags—especially if you’re focused solely on affordability. Prioritize your well-being above all else to stay safe. If you’ve had experience with bedspace, share your thoughts in the comments to help others make a well-informed choice
Compiled by Precious Gift Aloyo
1 thought on “What is Bedspace? A Cheaper Rent Option for Kampala Workers?”
“Were you forced to come and leave here…?” 🤣🤣🤣.
I don’t think I would easily go for a bedspace, I value privacy too much. But if the situation were to go dire, sure I would try it–better than being stranded at a petrol station or a taxi park.