Are you looking for a new house to rent in Kampala? Or maybe you’re a first-time visitor or trader in Uganda’s capital, Kampala? There’s so much about Kampala and its surrounding areas that only natives or long-time dwellers truly know. That ends today, as we break down what places in and around Kampala are commonly known for, giving you a better understanding of each area’s distinct identity and function. This guide will help you know what to expect when you visit, or simply save you from asking the wrong questions, like, I don’t know…
Mutaasa Kafeero building, along with those surrounding it, is the go-to spot for cheaper, usually used and refurbished phones. Ever heard of someone who bought a fake phone in Kampala? This is the signature place for that. It’s also where your lost iPhone might resurface after being grabbed in a concert or traffic jam. Mutaasa Kafeero is widely believed to be where snatched phones are sold by thugs before reappearing on the market as used. On the good side, it’s also the place to fix faulty phones and accessories. You can find brand new and genuine phones too, it just depends on how street-smart you are.
Nasser Road in Kampala’s CBD is known for stationery and printing. From large banner design prints, t-shirts, posters, to forging academic documents and payment receipts, this is the place to go.
Muyenga is often referred to as “Old Money” owing to residing families with wealthy backgrounds, most of whom were civil servants or business people in earlier years. By 2025, parts of Muyenga are being occupied by foreign nationals, and some now jokingly call it the “rich man’s slum.”
Kiyembe Lane, locally known as Mukiyembe, is the textile street of Kampala. For those looking for school and work uniforms, overalls, suits, curtains or gomesi, literally any fabric material is sold here. This street also has countless tailors with all kinds of fabric printing machines, from the traditional sewing machine to the latest electric sewing machines. Kiyembe is the spot.
Najjera, Naalya, and areas of Kira are known for harbouring a wave of social media celebrities, mostly Tweeps from X and TikTokers, thanks to the affordable apartments, bars known around here as Kafundas, and spas, unlike the hefty rent charges in areas like Makindye.
Kisekka, popularly known as Owa Kisekka, is where you find used spare parts for your car, jaj, or any other automotive. Mechanics here are known for ‘creating’ faults just to charge you more.
Nakasero Market, the fresh food hub of Kampala, always has trucks offloading fresh fruits, food, and vegetables. It’s also the place to go for spices and herbs. Anything organic, you’ll find it here.
Makindye and the entire stretch of Lukuli and Salaama Road are known for bars, massage parlours and upcoming artists. Almost everyone here is or knows someone who wants to become a big music star. From the 17-year-old selling roadside chicken to the boutique attendant, everything here seems to revolve around music, entertainment, and fame. Girls in nightclubs often double as queen dancers in music videos by day. Makindye Division as a whole is the best place to live if you work in Kampala CBD, 40 minutes at most to get into town.
Kansanga and Kabalagala are gradually earning the reputation of the United States of Africa, as more Eritreans, Somalis, Ethiopians, and Sudanese settle in. Many food spots in these areas now serve foreign dishes to meet the demand. Hiked rent, often paid a full year upfront by new residents, has made it harder for many Ugandans to hold on to their residences. Have you ever visited these areas on a Friday?
Kikuubo Lane, widely known as Mukikuubo, is the busiest lane in Kampala thanks to its wholesale prices. This street is always packed with traders from across the country alongside Kampala residents looking for cheaper deals on everyday items.
A perfect example of organised chaos, Owino Market has almost everything, from second-hand clothes and beddings to food, kitchenware, and even scholastic materials. Vendors here present whatever people ask for, as long as there’s a profit to be made.
Entebbe is known for its international airport, beaches, zoo, peaceful neighbourhoods, and clean air. Surprisingly, many Entebbe residents define the place as boring.
Kawempe is primarily defined by the dominance of Muslims. It is also home to Harris International, known for the Riham brand, a strong force in soft drink manufacturing in Uganda.
Kololo and Munyonyo, separately, are known for their high-end neighbourhood and residents driving sleek cars. The latter also boasts fresh fish from Lake Victoria, resorts, and the Martyrs’ Shrine.
Namugongo and adjacent Kyaliwajjala in Kira Division are mainly known for the two Uganda Martyrs sites, important to Catholics and Protestants. These areas are renowned for their many bars and pork joints. During the Martyrs’ Day celebration in June, navigation becomes difficult as some roads close to accommodate pedestrian pilgrims. Further along the same road is Sonde, Mukono, where it’s yet to be confirmed a number of public officials reside.
Have we missed anything? Share in the comments, and if you like this kind of content, join our WhatsApp Channel for more!
You may also be interested in:
- How to Find Good Houses for Rent in Kampala Uganda – Insider Tips
- Popular Places in Kampala and the Origin of Their Names
- Second Hand Clothes in Uganda: The Magic of ‘Mivumba’ Clothes
- 10 Boda Boda Hacks That Will Save You in Kampala
