KCCA gives Kabaka junction face-lift
Motorists pass by the Kabaka’s roundabout near Bulange, Mengo. KCCA and other partners have constructed a new structure at the roundabout. PHOTO BY ISMAIL KEZAALA
Kampala. Kampala Capital City Authority has given Kabaka Ronald Mutebi’s historical roundabout commonly known as the Nantawetwa a facelift as one of the activities to mark his 60th birthday on April 13.
The memorial roundabout is located at Kabaka Njagala Road near Bulange Mengo, Buganda Kingdom seat.
The erected structure comprises a long drum (engalabi) with a giant shield crossed with two spears, a historical symbol for Buganda’s mighty protection against adversaries.
The Kabaka is also expected to officially open the Masengere Complex on his birthday.
The building, which was renovated after lying idle for more than 40 years, has a new giant portrait of a lion at the top, symbolising the Kabaka’s power.
The birthday celebrations will also be marked by the Kabaka Run whose proceeds will contribute to the fight against fistula.
According to the Kabaka’s press secretary, Mr Sam Dick Kasolo, all the new projects will be unveiled as birthday gifts for the Kabaka.
“Unlike the previous Kabaka’s birthdays, this will be time for people to witness Ettoffaali contributions’ accountability. It will be a memorable event and Kabaka’s subjects should prepare for the best of the celebrations,” Mr Kasolo said in a telephone interview.
Speaking about the roundabout face-lift, Mr Kasolo said KCCA had spear-headed the project and other activities such as replanting of the 52 candlenut trees each representing a Buganda clan.
KCCA spokesperson Peter Kaujju said the new structure will be completed and handed over to the kingdom on Thursday.
“As KCCA, we are giving kin interest to such facilities because of their historical attributions and their potential to contribute to tourism industry mainly in the city,” Mr Kaujju said yesterday by telephone interview.
Contributors
Mr Kaujju said the roundabout project was a brain child of KCCA executive director Jennifer Musisi and other friends of Buganda. These include Hamis Kiggundu (Ham enterprises), Umar Nasooro (Safinet company), Mr Gordon Wavamuno (Spear Motors U Ltd), Mr Mbidde Mukasa (EALA MP) and Ms and Mr Ssekidde Sseroma (Seroma company).
