KCCA MARKS SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION OF THE SLICKS PROJECT

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) celebrated the successful conclusion of the SLICKS Project, a two-year joint initiative with the City of Strasbourg, at a formal closure event held on Thursday, November 14, 2024.

Launched in September 2022, the SLICKS Project focused on enhancing urban green space management, advancing quality education, and developing urban agriculture in Kampala through the concerted efforts of KCCA’s directorates of Physical Planning, Education and Social Services, and Gender, Community Services, and Production.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from Gescod, the French Agency for Development (AFD), and city leaders, all of whom celebrated the strides made in urban biodiversity and ecosystem conservation in Kampala.

Among the project’s key achievements was the release of a comprehensive biodiversity report, documenting bird and mammal species in the city, and the identification of Walufumbe Wetland as a pilot site for wetland restoration and conservation.

Claude Regall, Gescod’s representative, praised the initiative’s impact, stating, “The journey has been short, but the progress you have made is remarkable. I am confident in the project’s sustainability as the community and all stakeholders are motivated to carry it forward.”

Manon Obarowski the SLICKS project coordinator, echoed this sentiment, noting that the project’s collaborative approach and community engagement have laid a solid foundation for continued efforts in sustainable urban development.

Jimmy Amatre emphasized the broader potential of the SLICKS Project, adding that with further support, similar interventions could be expanded citywide.

The success of the SLICKS Project was attributed in large part to the support from the AFD, whose funding and guidance played a critical role.

Later in the day, guests, including Xavier Sticker, the Ambassador of France to Uganda, were treated to a spectacular showcase of talent during the second annual concert by the Kampala Youth Orchestra, held at Kitante Primary School.

The performance was also organized under the SLICKS project and involved students from schools, like Nakivubo Primary School, Buganda Road Primary School, Clever’s Origin Primary School and Caltec Academy Secondary School.

As the project formally concludes, KCCA and its partners affirmed their commitment to maintaining and expanding these efforts, driving forward an agenda of environmental sustainability and community resilience in Kampala.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer