Arua City

Arua City is one of Uganda’s newest cities. It was formed by Parliament on April 28, 2020, as a regional city for the West Nile subregion, and it went into operation on July 1, 2020. Formed from Arua town, below is what you need to know about Arua City.

Geography:

• Location: Arua City is in the northwestern part of Uganda, in the West Nile sub-region. It is approximately 475 kilometers (295 miles) northwest of Kampala, Uganda’s capital.
• Coordinates: The city lies between latitude 030 10’N and 300 50’N and longitude 300 30’E and 310 30’E.
• Borders: Arua City is bordered by Arua District to the north and west and Terego District to the east. It is the primary commercial and administrative center for the subregion.

Demographics:

• Population: According to the preliminary Uganda 2024 population census results, Arua City has approximately 440,540 people (59,716 visitors and 380,824 residents). 
• Ethnic Composition: The city is predominantly inhabited by the Lugbara people, but there is also a mix of other ethnic groups, including the Kakwa, Alur, and Madi, due to its cosmopolitan nature.
• Languages: The primary languages spoken are Lugbara and English, but Swahili, Alur, Madi, Kakwa, and other local languages are also commonly used.

Economy:

• Commerce and Trade: Arua City is the main commercial center of the West Nile region. Its vibrant markets, such as the Arua Main Market, attract traders from areas and neighboring countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan.
• Agriculture: The surrounding rural areas contribute agricultural produce to the city’s markets. The leading cash and food crops include tobacco, coffee, cassava, maize, and groundnuts.
• Transport and Logistics: Arua serves as the region’s transport and logistics center, benefiting from its strategic location near international borders.
• Tourism: The city has potential for tourism, with attractions such as historical sites, cultural heritage, and proximity to national parks like Murchison Falls National Park.

Infrastructure:

• Transport: Arua City is well-connected by a network of roads, including a highway that links it to Kampala and others that link it to DRC and South Sudan via the Maracha and Koboko districts. The city also has Arua Airport, which offers domestic and limited international flights.
• Utilities:
  • Electricity: The city is not connected to the national power grid, and solar power is increasing.
  • Water Supply: The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) provides piped water to most parts of the city, and boreholes and wells supplement the supply in some areas.
  • Sanitation: Efforts are ongoing to improve sanitation services, including waste management and sewerage systems.

Education:

• Arua City hosts numerous educational institutions, from primary and secondary to higher education.
  • Primary and Secondary Schools: There are many public and private schools, including St. Joseph’s College Ombaci and Mvara Senior Secondary School, the city’s notable secondary schools.
  • Universities and Tertiary Institutions: Muni University, a public university in the city, offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Additionally, there are vocational and technical training institutes.

Health:

• Healthcare Facilities: Arua Regional Referral Hospital is the city’s primary healthcare facility, providing various medical services. Several private clinics and health centers are also located there.
• Healthcare Challenges: Despite healthcare facilities, the city faces challenges such as inadequate medical supplies, staff shortages, and infrastructure limitations.

Culture and Social Life:

• Cultural Heritage: Arua is rich in cultural heritage, with the predominant Lugbara culture. Traditional music, dance, and festivals are integral to the community.
• Religion: The city has a mix of religious practices, with Christianity (mainly Catholic and Protestant denominations) and Islam being the major religions. There are numerous churches and mosques throughout the city.
• Social Amenities: Arua City has various social amenities, including sports facilities, recreational centers, hotels, and restaurants. The social life is vibrant, with many activities centered around central business areas, religious gatherings, and cultural events.

Urban Development:

• Governance: Arua City is governed by a city council headed by a mayor. The city council is responsible for urban planning, infrastructure development, and service delivery.
• Challenges: The city faces challenges related to rapid urbanization, such as congestion, inadequate housing, and pressure on public services. Efforts are ongoing to improve infrastructure, expand public services, and enhance residents’ overall quality of life.

Development Prospects:

• Economic Growth: Arua City has significant potential for economic growth due to its strategic location, vibrant commercial activities, and agricultural base.
• Investment Opportunities: The city offers several investment opportunities, including those in sectors such as agriculture, trade, manufacturing, tourism, and real estate. Others include sports and games, music, and entertainment.
• Urban Planning: The city works on urban planning initiatives to manage growth, improve infrastructure, and ensure sustainable development.

Arua City serves as a critical economic, cultural, and administrative center in the West Nile sub-region, with diverse opportunities for development and growth.

Reference Links:

1. Arua city website: https://aruacity.go.ug/
2. UBOS website: National-Population-and-Housing-Census-2024-Dissemination-of-Preliminary-Results.pdf