By Weswa Ronnie
MBALE CITY
Mbale City Council has acquired a brand-new Caterpillar grader worth Shs1.2 billion, registration number UA117AE to support road construction within the city.
Mbale city has been facing challenges in maintaining roads since last financial year due to the mechanical fault of the grader they had.
They have been hiring grader from neighboring Manafwa district which has been too expensive and difficult to maintain all roads under work plans since Manafwa district also wants to use it at the same time.
Mayor Namugali Cassim while briefing our reporter on Saturday, 22nd February, 2025 revealed that the grader reached the previous Friday night.
He expressed joy saying the money used to procure the Grader was part of local revenue taxpayers in the city pay and it has been in the budget of this financial year, 2024/25.
“I thank the taxpayers for their role in acquiring this new grader, which cost about UGX 1.2 billion. We might be the first local government to purchase such a machine, and while it was slightly expensive, it is essential for improving our roads,” Namugali said.
He assured residents that with the new grader, the city council will be able to maintain and repair all smaller roads more efficiently.
“I also appreciate my councilors for their patience. Initially, some people thought we were just making empty promises, but good things take time. What matters is not how much we explain ourselves, but the actions we take to leave a lasting legacy during our term,” he added.
Abudallah Magambo, the Deputy Speaker of Mbale City also acknowledged the contribution of city residents.
He says that with this Grader, maintainanance of roads in areas like Bumboi, Lwasso, Bukonde, Namanyonyi, and Bukasakya is now possible.
“I thank everyone for their role in this achievement. The grader was purchased using taxpayers’ money, and this should assure them that their contributions are being put to good use.” He said.
Hakim Watenyeli, a resident in Mbale city and member of the City Development Forum, highlighted the progress Mbale is making.
“People have been saying on the streets of Mbale that the city is known for seven rumors a day. However, if we acquire a roller and other essential machines, Mbale will get the development it truly needs, we can change that perception,” he said.
The Caterpillar grader comes fourth, following the Mayor’s vehicle, the Education vehicle, and the Town Clerk’s vehicle, which were recently purchased by the Mbale City Council.
