Jinja Leaders Unveil Ambitious Plans for New Term Focused on Infrastructure, Economy, and Youth

Jinja City is set to embark on a new era of development as its newly elected leadership has announced a series of ambitious priorities. The upcoming term will focus on enhancing service delivery, upgrading infrastructure, and boosting revenue collection.

The Mayor-elect for Jinja North City Division, Mr. Ayoub Wabika, plans to prioritize the construction of a modern market and a permanent campus for Makerere University in the Budondo Ward. He believes these initiatives will significantly improve the economic standing of the area, creating substantial economic opportunities.

Mr. Wabika also indicated that land has been secured for the Budondo Market, which is expected to accommodate approximately 5,000 vendors and enhance local revenue. The establishment of the Makerere University campus is anticipated to lead to the development of a separate general hospital, with the Budondo Health Centre IV slated for an upgrade.

In the Southern Division, Mayor-elect Mr. Simon Kasirye aims to empower the youth by partnering with local garages to offer vocational training in mechanics. He also highlighted the importance of improving sanitation and proper waste management, suggesting that funds saved from efficient garbage collection could be redirected to other development projects.

Jinja City Mayor-elect, Mr. Abdulhafidh Nagaya, stressed the critical need for road rehabilitation across the city to facilitate trade, improve mobility, and stimulate economic growth. His agenda also includes strengthening the health and education sectors through facility upgrades and providing bursaries for disadvantaged students.

Sanitation and waste management are central to the leaders’ plans, with proposals to recycle garbage into useful products like fertilizers, thereby creating jobs. Tourism development is another significant focus, with efforts to improve the city’s marketing and digital presence to attract investors and visitors.

Councillor Mr. Julius Kayiira emphasized the importance of inter-party cooperation for the city’s progress. He also proposed implementing stricter laws against vandalism of city property to reduce unnecessary expenditure.

The outgoing Mayor, Mr. Peter Okocha Kasolo, has urged the new leadership to adhere to the laws governing local governments as they pursue their development agenda.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)