Gulu's First Female Mayor Faces Pressing Challenges

Gifter Aber has officially assumed office as the Mayor of Laroo-Pece City Division in Gulu City, marking a significant milestone as the first woman to hold this position in the Acholi sub-region. Her election victory over established male politicians has set a new precedent for leadership in the area.

During her swearing-in ceremony, Aber, a mother of four, adopted a conciliatory tone, emphasizing the need to move past the electoral contest and focus on delivering essential services to the citizens. She refuted claims from her opponents that she lacked leadership experience, arguing that years of political tenure by others had not yielded sufficient results.

Upon entering office, Aber has pinpointed fighting corruption and improving security as her immediate priorities. The division grapples with substantial challenges, including the daily generation of 130 tons of solid waste, of which less than half is properly managed. The Laroo-Pece Division, which houses Gulu Main Market, contributes significantly to this waste burden.

Furthermore, security concerns are paramount, with a recent increase in homicides and gun-related violence. Aber has pledged to collaborate with security agencies to restore order. The state of infrastructure, particularly roads in newly annexed areas, also requires urgent attention to encourage local investment and improve living conditions.

Limited access to utilities such as electricity and clean water remains a concern for a large portion of Gulu City’s population. While Gulu’s road network has expanded considerably since its elevation to city status in 2020, many roads, especially in annexed areas, are in disrepair and require upgrading. Aber’s administration aims to address these multifaceted issues to foster development and ensure the well-being of the division’s residents.

Source: https://www.monitor.ug/uganda/news/national/what-awaits-gulu-s-first-female-mayor-5476182