MAKINDYE RESIDENTS AND LOCAL LEADERS OPTIMISTIC OVER SALAAMA ROAD PROJECT

On a sunny Friday afternoon, the community members along Salaama Road in the Makindye Division gathered at St. Potiano Catholic Church for an important meeting organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).

The focus was on engaging Project Affected Persons (PAPs) and other stakeholders on the developments regarding the ongoing reconstruction of Salaama Road.

The construction works have already commenced, beginning with forward maintenance and the relocation of utilities such as water pipes, telecom lines, and power lines.

This road, a critical artery leading to the vital Kiruddu Hospital and the Munyonyo area, is being reconstructed as part of the broader Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP), funded by the government of Uganda, which includes the construction of at least 40 roads.

The 8.15-kilometer project has garnered widespread support from both local leaders and residents, all of whom are highly optimistic about its potential to bring about transformative changes in their area, aligning perfectly with its intended goals.

Among the prominent figures in attendance was the Mayor of Makindye Division, Ali Kasirye Nganda Mulyanyama. In his address, Mulyanyama urged the community to embrace and support this transformative initiative.

He emphasized the crucial role of community involvement and called on parents to educate their children about HIV prevention, underscoring the multifaceted benefits of the project beyond mere infrastructure improvements.

Mulyanyama also expressed his satisfaction with the concurrent skilling projects and the planned construction of public toilets, highlighting how these efforts align with broader development goals.

"This road is more than just a pathway; it represents progress, health, and a brighter future for our children," he remarked.

Zahara Luyirika, the KCCA Council Speaker, echoed the Mayor's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.

"Let everyone keep an eye on this project so that we get a better deal on this road," she urged.

Luyirika’s call for active community monitoring resonated with the attendees, reinforcing the collective responsibility towards ensuring the project’s success.

Among the voices of approval was Makindye Division NRM Chairperson Lukyamuzi, who commended the government for initiating the long-awaited construction.

"We have patiently been waiting for this project, and I'm happy it is taking off," Lukyamuzi stated, reflecting the community's anticipation and hope for the future.

Beyond the immediate improvements to transportation infrastructure, the Salaama Road project is set to uplift the local community through various developmental initiatives.

Gerald Ahabwe a Social Development Specialist of KCCA elaborated on the KCRRP’s significant focus on skilling youth and women in the area.

"More than 400 people will be trained in business skills, literacy, construction, and electricity," Ahabwe said.

This initiative aims to empower the local community, providing valuable skills that promise future employment opportunities and economic growth.