Kanungu, November 23, 2023
By Mwajuma Twaha Adams
Kanungu District is gearing up for a transformational change as it anticipates substantial benefits from the upcoming implementation of the Dr. Dip project under the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Eng. Sam Kajojo, the District Chairperson, unveiled the exciting news during a recent District Council session presided over by Speaker Frank Byaruhanga.
The Dr. Dip project is slated to commence in the upcoming financial year, promising crucial support for various infrastructure needs. Eng. Sam Kajojo outlined that the focus will be on bolstering administration, schools, water supply, roads, and other essential facilities. In a bid to maximize the benefits, the district has also requested a study tour from UNHCR to glean insights from districts that have previously reaped the rewards of the Dr. Dip initiative.
However, amid the optimistic prospects, Kanungu’s Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Ambrose Mwesigye Amanyire, voiced concern about the escalating number of murder cases in the district, primarily linked to domestic violence. Amanyire called upon leaders of faith-based organizations to address the critical issue of anger management within their congregations.
The concern over rising crime rates was underscored by a recent high court session that dealt with 42 cases, predominantly murder cases. Justice Tom Chemutai presided over the session, resulting in convictions and sentences ranging from 15 to 50 years.
During the same council session, the formation of new committees and the election of chairpersons took place. Hon. Tumwesigye Rogers, representing Kihiihi Town Council, secured the Chairperson position for the Works Committee, expressing gratitude for the support and pledging collaboration to enhance roads and infrastructure.
In other committee appointments, Hon. Rogers Tutuhukire emerged victorious as the Chairperson of the Finance Committee, while Hon. Rutazana Silver assumed the role of Chairperson for Social Works and Services. Hon. Joshua Rukundo retained his position as Chairperson for Production, Natural Resources, and Commercial Services, along with Hon. Anita Kakuru for Gender.
The council also tackled concerns about the declining prices of tea, which have prompted farmers to contemplate uprooting tea plantations. In response, Speaker Frank Byaruhanga assured farmers of an extraordinary council meeting. He extended invitations to ministers for agriculture, animals and fisheries, and energy to address the reduced tea prices and electricity issues at the Mpungu-Kayonza tea factory.
Speaker Byaruhanga emphasized that all area MPs would attend the extraordinary council meeting to closely follow up on the ministers’ responses, underscoring the commitment of the local government to address the challenges facing Kanungu District.
