On July 26, 2024, Makerere University celebrated yet another milestone as the National Enterprise Corporation handed over the newly renovated Lumumba Hall of Residence to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. The event followed after the UGX 9 billion renovation project that began on June 27, 2023, to once again make this iconic hall stand in all its former glory.
This historic landmark of Makerere University, Lumumba Hall, was originally constructed in the 1960s and officially opened in 1971. The hall has not had major renovations since it was constructed, yet it is one of the biggest halls of residence on campus. The comprehensive makeover was meant to give it a face-lift while maintaining its historic touch.
He expressed satisfaction with the renovation, saying NEC had followed the guidelines and quality standards set by the university. “You can think this Hall has just been built. It has been restored. This points to the wonderful quality works by NEC”, he said at the handing over ceremony. He also extended appreciation to the Government of Uganda, saying it has provided funds for the renovation of Lumumba Hall and Mary Stuart Hall of Residence; the latter’s renovation begins on May 31, 2024.
Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba commended the renovation done, saying the hall is now more accessible to persons with disabilities. He also applauded the good working relationship between the Government of Uganda and Makerere University Management towards promoting the welfare of students.
It emerged that the renovation project lasted 12 months and saw a complete makeover of the hall into a modern, user-friendly facility. Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary, commended NEC for contributing towards national development by showcasing a local expertise in building construction.
Eng. Brian Buhanda of NEC thanked Makerere University for the opportunity to undertake this project. He noted that in the course of the renovation, NEC had gained experience that would be instrumental in any other construction works in the future.
During the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, Lumumba Hall will be temporarily relocated to host students presently housed in Mary Stuart Hall, hence unifying life to be continuous on campus. The hall is named after Patrice Lumumba, a freedom fighter and the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Congo. Its capacity is approximately 752 students.
The restoration of the Lumumba Hall is evidence that Makerere University is highly committed to modern, all-inclusive facilities for its students and reaffirms its position as a leading institution in the region.
