Overview:
Speaking during the handover of the project sites, Willy Picho, the project manager and district water officer, said the projects are expected to be completed within three months and will be handed over by June 2026.
Kitgum District Local Government has launched several development projects worth over Shs 700 million aimed at improving education and healthcare services in the district. The projects include the construction of teachers’ houses, health centers, and classrooms, as well as the drilling of boreholes.
Speaking during the handover of the project sites, Willy Picho, the project manager and district water officer, said the projects are expected to be completed within three months and will be handed over by June 2026. “All materials used for the constructions will be tested from the material laboratory to ensure good quality work and value for money,” he said.
The projects include the construction of a semi-detached teachers’ house at Bishop Ochola Primary School worth Shs 121 million, a detached teachers’ house at Alune Primary School worth Shs 122 million, and the completion of a children ward at Orom Health Center III worth Shs 84 million. Other projects include the fencing of Lalekan Health Center II worth Shs 32 million,
Lukwor Health Center II worth Shs 31 million, Obyen Health Center II worth Shs 36 million, and Tumangur Health Center II worth Shs 27 million. Additionally, a classroom block will be constructed at Oryang Ojuma Primary School at a cost of Shs 116 million, and five boreholes will be drilled at a cost of Shs 134 million.
Habib Abubakar, the Kitgum Chief Administrative Officer, said the fund for these projects has been sourced from the sector development grant. “These projects were put where there is need after a thorough assessment, and I appeal to community members to also be part of the project so that vandalism is prevented.” he noted.
Arwai Christopher Obol, the Kitgum District Chairperson, expressed his happiness about the projects, revealed that these projects will help address the challenges faced by the people of Kitgum district who are using these facilities.
“I call for ownership of the projects to ensure its sustainability while serving the purpose it was constructed for.” He explained. Joseph Okidi, the Kitgum Assistant Resident District Commissioner, emphasized the importance of local involvement, saying,
“Ensure there is local content in these projects by buying materials from locals and also ensure that casual laborers are got from the neighboring communities. Always tell your staff not to involve themselves in acts which go against the law of Uganda, like sexual harassment and exploitations, among others. The long arm of the law will get them.”
He also urged district leaders to carry out constant monitoring and supervision to ensure the projects are completed on time and to the required standard.
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