Kabale municipality celebrated a significant milestone on Friday with the official handover and commissioning of 200 solar-powered streetlights, valued at Ugandan Shillings 2 billion. This infrastructure development project, funded by the World Bank under the Uganda Support Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) initiative, aims to enhance urban infrastructure in the region.
The leadership of Kabale municipal council, headed by Mayor Emmanuel Byamugisha Sentaro and Town Clerk Justine Barekye, received the solar-powered streetlights during the commissioning ceremony. The event was presided over by Kabale Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Godfrey Nyakahuma.
These solar-powered streetlights have been strategically installed across various roads in Kabale municipality, including Jackson Road, Johnson Road, Kabale–Kisoro Road, Stadium Road, Mbarara Road, Katuna Road, Mukombe Road, Rwakiseta Road, Kazooba Road, and Muhumuza Road.
Eng Peter Nkurunungi, the managing director of Geses U Ltd, the company responsible for installing the streetlights, highlighted some challenges faced during the project’s execution. Delays occurred due to theft and vandalism, resulting in the replacement of approximately 17 solar streetlights. However, Nkurunungi assured that all lights are now operational.
Justine Barekye, the Kabale Municipality Town Clerk, emphasized the project’s significance in enhancing security, promoting business activities, reducing night-time accidents, and beautifying the town.
Mayor Emmanuel Byamugisha Sentaro expressed gratitude to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) for prioritizing Kabale in infrastructure development investments. He announced measures taken by the municipal council to combat vandalism and theft of streetlights, including offering a cash reward of Ugandan Shillings 1,000,000 for information leading to the apprehension of perpetrators.
Looking ahead, Mayor Sentaro revealed plans for Kabale’s transition to city status, slated to commence in 2025. Preparation efforts will include the demarcation process for the new city, reflecting Kabale’s ongoing commitment to growth and development.
