Mubende District Uganda is one of the largest administrative and agricultural districts in the Central Region. The district headquarters are located in Mubende Town, about 172 kilometers west of Kampala, making it a central hub for trade and governance. Over the years, Mubende has undergone several administrative changes, losing parts of its territory to the creation of new districts such as Mityana in 2005 and Kassanda in 2019.
Despite the territorial reductions, Mubende District remains vital due to its fertile soils, large land area, and role as a major food and cash crop producer for Uganda’s domestic and export markets.
Location and Geography
Mubende District is bordered by:
- Kyankwanzi District to the north
- Kiboga and Kassanda Districts to the northeast
- Mityana District to the east
- Gomba and Sembabule Districts to the south
- Kyegegwa District to the southwest
- Kibaale District to the northwest
The district covers an estimated 4,620 square kilometers at an elevation of around 1,300 meters above sea level. Its central position in Uganda makes it a crossroads for trade and transport.
History and Administration
Mubende has a long history as part of Buganda Kingdom’s territorial organization. In the 2000s, administrative restructuring led to significant changes:
- 2005: Mityana District was carved out.
- 2019: Kassanda District became independent, reducing Mubende’s size further.
Currently, Mubende comprises three counties – Buwekula, Kassambya, and Kasambya – and has numerous sub-counties and town councils that oversee local governance.
Population
- 1991 Census: ~277,500 residents
- 2002 Census: ~423,450 residents (50.3% male, 49.7% female)
- 2012 Estimate: ~610,600 residents
With a growth rate of 3.6% annually, the district has experienced steady demographic expansion, driven by both natural population growth and migration.
Economy
Agriculture is the backbone of the Mubende District Uganda economy. The majority of the population is engaged in farming, producing both food crops and cash crops.
Food crops:
- Sweet potatoes
- Beans
- Cassava
- Maize
- Bananas
- Groundnuts
- Onions
- Cabbage
- Tomatoes
Cash crops:
- Coffee
- Tea
Coffee, in particular, is a major export crop, contributing significantly to household incomes and national revenue. Tea is also emerging as an important cash crop in certain parts of the district.
