KAMPALA, Uganda | 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, saying the expansion is part of efforts to enhance taxpayer services and accommodate its growing workforce.
According to URA spokesperson Robert Kalumba, the new space will host key departments including the Large Taxpayers Office, Public Sector, Medium Taxpayers Division, Risk and Strategy Department, and Petroleum Division. He explained that the move follows a major recruitment exercise that saw the authority’s workforce grow from about 2,000 employees five years ago to over 3,000 today.
“Our expansion is driven by operational needs,” Kalumba said. “We have grown to serve you better and faster. The new offices will enable us to offer more efficient and specialized services, especially for sectors like oil and petroleum that require focused attention.”
The procurement, conducted under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets (PPDA) Act, was awarded to the lowest bidder among three proposals, costing about UGX 6 billion annually. Kalumba dismissed claims circulating online suggesting an annual rent of UGX 18 billion as “false” and cautioned the public against misinformation.
“One of the biggest challenges we face today is fake news and its ability to mislead the public,” he said, emphasizing that the procurement process followed all PPDA guidelines.
The phased relocation will begin with the large and medium taxpayer units, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations. Currently, URA’s Nakawa headquarters hosts more than 1,700 staff, and the expansion into Pearl Tower is expected to improve efficiency and taxpayer access, particularly for businesses in the city center.
“This development directly benefits taxpayers,” Kalumba added. “Being closer to our clients means faster, more responsive, and more personalized service.”
URA reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and modernization as Uganda’s economy expands. With rising revenue targets now at UGX 31 trillion, up from UGX 19 trillion five years ago the authority says it remains focused on building capacity to meet the country’s growing fiscal needs.