On Friday 26^th July 2024, the Contractor- National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) handed over the renovated Lumumba Hall of Residence to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Inspecting the renovated Lumumba Hall, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that NEC had performed as per the guidelines and quality standards provided hence fulfilling the expectations of Management, students, alumni, staff and stakeholders in general.

The UGX 9 billion renovation works, which commenced on 27^th June 2023 involved undertaking an overhaul aimed at restoring Lumumba Hall to its original beauty. At the site handover in 2023, the Vice Chancellor stated that Lumumba Hall which was built in the 1960s and officially opened in 1971 was the biggest Hall of Residence, but there had been no major renovation since the time it was constructed.

After 12 months of renovation, the Vice Chancellor was delighted to receive the renovated Lumumba Hall from NEC.   “You can think this Hall has just been built. It has been restored. This points to the wonderful quality works by NEC,” remarked Prof. Nawangwe. He thanked NEC for the quality work and high level of professionalism in the execution of the entire project.

The Vice Chancellor applauded the Government of Uganda for providing all the resources for the renovation of Lumumba Hall as well as Mary Stuart Hall of residence, whose renovation works commenced on Friday 31^st May 2024.

On behalf of the students, the Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba acknowledged the Government of Uganda and the Makerere University Management for embarking on the renovation of Halls of Residence within the University.

“The resources have been put to good use leading to a beautiful and magnificent edifice of a new Lumumba Hall. The facility is user friendly for students living with disabilities, which clearly aligns to the broader commitment of inclusivity and diversity,” said Lubega Nsamba.

Commending the quality works, the University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda pointed out that the engagement of local companies such as NEC not only contributes to national development, but also showcases the local expertise in the different sectors.

Eng. Brian Buhanda who represented the Managing Director of NEC-Lt. Gen. James Mugira appreciated Makerere University for providing NEC with an opportunity to showcase its potential in the construction sector. He indicated that NEC had gained valuable expertise from this project, which would enrich future ventures.

With the ongoing renovation of Mary Stuart Hall also undertaken by NEC, Lumumba Hall will be occupied by the residents of Mary Stuart Hall. In the University setting, Lumumba Hall and Mary Stuart Hall form the Lumbox solidarity.

Lumumba Hall was named after Patrice Lumumba, a freedom fighter and the first Prime Minister of the Republic of Congo (currently Democratic Republic of Congo). The hall has the capacity to accommodate approximately 752 students.