Go Down zone: A growing slum

Go Down zone is located in Makindye Division, Kisugu Parish, Kampala District.
It lies between Namuwongo and the Industrial Area. The largest part of it is occupied by a railway line though the space is used by residents since the train rarely passes there.
A big trench separates the area from Industrial Area. The area is densely populated with most people living in mud houses and a few made of brick.

Most residents are illiterate and unemployed.
John Kaboko, a pioneer occupant who has lived in the area for 26 years, says the land was given to them by Rift Valley Railway Uganda Limited in 1991. He says it initially had only three occupants and most people started migrating there five years later.

The residents live on either side of the railway line.
“Initially, people lived in the upper part with the lower part reserved for agriculture since it was very fertile because of the swamp. This is why it is referred to as a “Go down”. As the population grew in the upper areas, three men including my late father shifted here and others followed,” says Brian Ngabirano, the area vice chairman, who was born and raised there.

Accessibility
The zone has no access road making it inaccessible by car. However, there are outlets between house corridors that can lead you up to Namuwongo main road or you can connect using the side roads that cross the area.

Cost of rent and land
A plot of land costs between Shs2m and Shs1m. However, the land here is scarce and so it is hard to get a plot on sale.
The highest amount you will pay for a rental is Shs70,000 with utilities included. Other houses go for Shs60,000 and Shs50,000 or less.

Development
Once a swampy area full of bushes and gardens, Go Down has grown from a population of three people to capacity. Once a dominantly agricultural area, there are now a number of activities residents engage in.

“We now have pipped water and electricity something that was not there in the past. Security in the area has also improved with help from the officer in charge of Kisugu Police Station, crime preventers and residents. We carry out patrols in the night and arrest those breaking the law,” Ngabirano notes.

Economy
Majority of residents here are low income earners. Most people sell charcoal, chapatti and the famous rolex. There are also a number of bars and restaurants. Residents dont have to travel far to access goods and services because most are readily available.
“We have a number of recreational centres where people come to have fun. We also have a church and a few schools. Generally, the area is improving for the better,” Ngabirano adds.

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