If you have looked toward Kampala’s skyline recently, you have likely noticed a towering new addition. A massive Ugandan flag that now flies high above Mbuya Hill.

And if you are one of those wondering what the flag is about or where exactly it is located, here is the full story.

The flag is situated at the under-constructed headquarters of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, which also serves as the General Headquarters of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF). Standing on one of Kampala’s most prominent hills, the Uganda flag installation, according to the CDF, was erected as a landmark of national pride, “making our Fatherland[sic] Uganda great”

However, as impressive as it already looks, it is not actually finished yet.

According to a tweet by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the flag monument is still under construction. While it already dominates the skyline, the CDF noted that the final structure, awaiting the return of the Uganda cranes, could end up even taller and possibly bigger than what the public currently sees.

The choice of Mbuya Hill appears strategic. As one of the city’s highest points, the flag can be seen from several suburbs, including Nakawa, Bugolobi, Kyambogo, Kireka, and Mutungo. It also joins a small list of giant flags in the city, including the one at the Next Media building in Naguru, even though the Mbuya installation is expected to become the most iconic due to its scale and military significance.

So, the next time you’re on Jinja Road and spot that giant Uganda flag waving on a white pole atop Mbuya hill, know that it is at the UPDF headquarters.

Fun fact: Did you know that during the 2026 Uganda general election, publicly raising the national flag could actually get you arrested? Security forces strictly enforced a colonial-era law requiring Ugandans to get ministerial permission before hoisting the flag. While the government argued they were protecting the flag’s “dignity,” many saw it as a move to stop opposition supporters from using the flag as a patriotic symbol.