Masaka City authorities have decided to change the name of Broadway Road to Kabaka Mutebi II Road. This decision comes after calls from local legislators to rename streets with colonial names, acknowledging the contributions of natives to the city’s development.
The Mayor of Masaka City, Ms Florence Namayanja, shared that Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) would beautify Kabaka Mutebi II Road by planting palm trees and greenery along the 13km stretch from Nyendo Total Roundabout to Kijjabwemi Roundabout.
Kabaka Mutebi II played a crucial role in advocating for Masaka City status, prompting the government to reconsider its decision. As part of the beautification process, URA has pledged Sh10 million, and the city council plans to enhance cleanliness by paving lanes and working on drainage.
During the grand opening of URA’s regional offices on Kabaka Mutebi II Road, URA Commissioner General, Mr John Musinguzi, emphasized the importance of accessibility for addressing taxpayers’ concerns efficiently.
The newly unveiled URA regional offices, costing Shs9.9 billion, mark the organization’s commitment to enhancing service delivery. State Minister for Micro Finance, Mr Haruna Kasolo, encouraged Ugandans to meet their tax obligations to reduce the government’s reliance on loans.
Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Mr Mathias Mpuuga, congratulated URA on completing the regional offices, noting their positive impact on Masaka’s skyline. However, he urged URA to strengthen its sensitization campaign to help the local business community understand the benefits of paying taxes.
Since Masaka gained city status in July 2020, it has undergone significant development, including infrastructure projects funded by the World Bank. Solar-powered street lights installed under the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) project have contributed to reduced crime rates, improved road safety, and boosted the nighttime economy over the past three years.