Architects, creatives seek common ground as USA hosts 2025 Symposium on Sustainable Design and Economy

September 6, 2025 in Business, Companies, Real Estate & Property, Trade & Industry by Editor

The Uganda Society of Architects (USA), in partnership with the Uganda Parliamentary Forum for Creative Industries (UGAPAFOCI), will next week bring together two worlds that rarely share a stage: architecture and the creative economy. The national symposium, scheduled for Thursday, September 11 at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, will explore how design and creative industries can find common ground in driving Uganda’s GDP growth, cultural identity, and sustainable development.

Running under the theme “Sustainable Architecture and the Creative Economy: Driving Uganda’s GDP Growth Through Design, Film, Music, Fashion, Digital Media, and Cultural Heritage,” the event will convene architects, urban planners, musicians, filmmakers, designers, investors, and policymakers. The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, will officiate as Guest of Honor, while Tunisian architect and urban designer Arch. Fida Sassi will deliver the keynote address.

The agenda includes a presentation on the Uganda Museum Project, panel discussions on sustainable cities and financing creative industries, and expert sessions on digital innovation, heritage conservation, and intellectual property rights. By weaving these conversations together, organisers hope to underline the economic and cultural dividends of collaboration between built environment professionals and creative entrepreneurs.

Arch. Jacquiline Namayanja, President of the Uganda Society of Architects, said the symposium is about breaking silos. “This is a platform for collaboration across disciplines—showcasing how architecture and the creative economy can work together to define Uganda’s identity, attract investment, and build a sustainable future,” she noted.

Racheal Magoola, Chairperson of UGAPAFOCI, echoed that sentiment, highlighting the creative sector’s growing weight in national development. “The creative industries are a vital engine for Uganda’s economy. From music and film to fashion, design, and digital media, they create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen national identity. Integrating creativity into our agenda unlocks new pathways for tourism, investment, and sustainable growth,” she said.

Private-sector sponsors are also aligning with the message of innovation and synergy. Kansai Plascon, alongside glazing and aluminium firms Shibaam and Casements Africa, will showcase new technologies in building materials. “Besides being cheaper, glass has unique properties which confer environmental and aesthetic advantages in construction. We are seeing growing acceptance of glass in both large and small projects as the sector rebounds after Covid-19,” said Moiz Vajihi, a director at Shibaam.

Casements Africa’s General Manager, Pearl Kengaju, urged clients to respect professional guidance when applying new materials. “What you like might appeal strongly to you, but it is not always in your long-term interest. Respecting the advice of official vendors and manufacturers ensures durability and safety,” she advised.

To further cement this cross-sector approach, USA leaders Namayanja and Arch. Catherine Muyinda stressed the need for professional oversight at every phase of construction projects. They warned that bypassing architects and engineers risks costly mistakes and structural failures.

The symposium will also feature B2B networking and sponsor showcases, creating opportunities for collaboration between the private sector and creative practitioners. It is open to the public, with an attendance fee of UGX 250,000 payable through the Uganda Society of Architects.