
Inside the mixed-use complex rising in Nakasero that will host Afreximbank’s East Africa HQ, a hotel, conference centre and an Africa Trade Centre hub.
Quick facts
- Official name: Afrexim Bank House, Kampala (also known as Kampala Afreximbank Africa Trade Centre) – Wikipedia
- Location: Nakasero, Central Division, Kampala (Yusuf Lule Road; 2.43 acres donated by the Government of Uganda) Kampala Capital City Authority
- Project type: Mixed-use complex regional HQ + hotel + conference/exhibition centre + trade-information hub + tech incubation space – Afreximbank
- Start: November 2024 | Target completion: Q4 2027
- Estimated cost: US$120–150 million
Where it is and why the site matters
The project is located in Nakasero, Kampala’s diplomatic and commercial hub offering proximity to government offices, embassies, and top-tier hotels. The 2.43-acre parcel was granted by the Government of Uganda, facilitating the establishment of a permanent East Africa HQ following Afreximbank’s interim office setup in Kampala in 2019.
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What’s being built: spaces & functions
The Kampala AATC (Africa Trade Centre) is envisioned as a mixed-use campus that brings together:
- Regional headquarters for Afreximbank’s Eastern African operations
- A business-class hotel
- A conference & exhibition centre
- A trade-information hub and technology incubation space for SMEs
Explore more insights in our Construction Blog.
Timeline & status
- 2019: Afreximbank sets up its East Africa regional office in Kampala
- October 2022: Government donates land in Nakasero
- November 2024: Construction begins (estimated 36-month build)
- Q4 2027: Expected project completion
Architecture & design cues
Design concepts for the AATC family show modern glass façades, landscaped courtyards, and flexible event spaces. Kampala’s version is expected to follow this aesthetic while adapting to the local context.
Budget & delivery
Cost is estimated at US$120–150 million. The project enjoys strong institutional support from Afreximbank and the Government of Uganda to ensure timely delivery.
Why it matters for Uganda
- Trade & investment hub: A venue for trade missions, B2B events, and AfCFTA activity
- Job creation & skills: Construction and ongoing operations will spur both skilled and semi-skilled employment
- City branding: Adds premium Grade-A commercial stock to Nakasero, enhancing Kampala’s international profile
What to watch next
- 2025–2026: Superstructure progress visible along Yusuf Lule Road
- Upcoming: Hotel & conference management partners to be announced
- Tenant mix: Expect DFIs and trade bodies to join
Sources & Further Reading
Get in Touch with Us
Smeaton Constructions – Smeaton Constructions Daily
📍 Kampala, Nabbingo–Masaka Road, Uganda
📞 +256 758 821 603 | +256 787 943 539
📧 smeatonconstructions.ac@gmail.com
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