The Kitgum District Local Government on July 25, 2025, honoured contractors for the successful completion of renovation works at the district headquarters. The gesture is hailed by both leaders and residents as a step towards improving service delivery and restoring dignity to public facilities.
The renovation project, valued at shs104 million, included general painting of the building, repair and replacement of broken windows, construction of a new podium, and the refurbishment of key offices including the district boardroom, the council speaker’s office, the registry, and the clerk to council’s office.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the LC5 chairperson, Christopher Arwai Obol, said the facelift was long overdue and part of the district’s broader efforts to restore professionalism and improve the working environment for public servants.
“A decent working environment is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. We are proud of the contractors who delivered on time, within budget, and to acceptable standards. We now look forward to continuing with Phase II, which will include renovating the washrooms and installing a mini lift to ease movement to the second floor,” Obol remarked.
New gate, disability ramp among key features
The newly constructed main gate valued at shs44 million was also officially unveiled during the event. Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Jimmy Ssegawa Ebil, who commissioned the renovated facilities, commended the leadership for prudent financial management.
“This is what responsible governance looks like. The work done here worth shs60 million inside and shs44 million at the gate reflects quality despite the modest budget. The access ramp for persons with disabilities is especially commendable. Inclusivity must be the standard, not the exception,” Ebil said.
He urged district staff to maintain the infrastructure, noting that improved facilities create a conducive environment for offering timely and effective services to the people of Kitgum.
Community applauds improvements
The renovation has not gone unnoticed by members of the public. Several residents and civil society members expressed satisfaction with the development, citing improved access and professionalism.
Florence Akello, a market vendor in Pandwong, said the new look gives a better impression of local government.
“Before, the offices looked abandoned, windows were broken, and paint was peeling. Now, we feel respected as citizens when we come for services,” she shared.
Geoffrey Komakech, a youth from Pager Division, praised the inclusion of disability access, saying it was a “powerful message of equality.”
“Many times, our colleagues with disabilities are forgotten. That ramp speaks volumes. It tells us that this government is listening,” Komakech said.
Beatrice Lalam, a resident of Kitgum central division, Kitgum municipality, also noted the improved security thanks to the new gate.
“It may seem small, but that gate shows that there’s order and accountability here. It helps control movement and ensures everyone’s safety,” she noted.
District leaders revealed that additional upgrades are in the pipeline under the district infrastructure improvement plan. These include modern washroom facilities, installation of a mini elevator, landscaping, and digital office equipment to support e-governance.
The Kitgum district council has vowed to continue prioritizing value-for-money investments in public infrastructure and encourages local contractors to uphold quality standards and accountability in all projects.
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