Makerere University students have launched a fundraising drive to help renovate Africa Hall. The over UGX.74million project was launched by an Alumnus and Member of Parliament for Bujenje Constituency, Princess Labwoni Kabakumba Masiko at a highly colorful ceremony held at the Ladies’ Hall of Residence on Saturday, 25^th April 2015.

In her speech, Hon. Kabakumba Masiko commended the students for coming up with such a brilliant idea that is going to cause change not only in Africa Hall but also in Makerere University as a whole. She added that this gesture not only portrayed the love they have for their mother Hall but also the true spirit of innovation and development at Makerere University.

“I thank the vision bearers for this vivid campaign we have launched today. At first it was targeting only the lawn tennis courts, but I am glad that the vision has expanded to incorporate renovation of the Hall,” Hon. Kabakumba Masiko remarked.

The MP promised to fully back the project and assured students that the first phase; renovation of the lawn tennis courts will have been completed by next semester.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration (DVCFA), Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, urged students to reach out to every alumni of Makerere University for financial support to revive the glory of the institution.

“Africa Hall was named after our continent and as such, this is not a simple name. We must put our efforts together to not only renovate the lawn tennis courts but also rebrand the Hall,” he emphasized.

Opened in 1971, Africa Hall has nurtured a great number of ladies who have gone on to excel at the national and continental level. The Hall is located next to Livingstone Hall – for gentlemen and together, the two form the strong Afro-Stone solidarity.

According to the Warden, Dr. Amero Stella Eduan, the fundraising drive will help to sensitise both current and former residents of the Hall on their role as alumni. Dr.Amero said fundraising for the renovations shall go a long way in defining the importance of university alumni and their role in institutional development.

“There are so many ways in which we benefit from the university but the question that remains is how do we give back to our alma mater? Africa Hall and Makerere University as a whole have definitely registered a big number of alumni and so we urge you all to come back home to renovate and restore Africa Hall’s glory,” she said.

The Deputy Dean of Students, Mr. Steven Kateega applauded the student’s efforts for the fundraising drive-a landmark event that depicts students’ ability and determination to leave behind a legacy at campus.

The Guild President H.E. David Bala, observed that the achievements registered by the Afro-Stone solidarity were commendable and therefore promised to work with the committee to mobilize the whole Makerere community to effect positive change at Makerere.

Article by Nabatte Prossy, Trainee, Public Relations Office