By Nanteza Ruth Walusimbi
JINJA
MTN Uganda has marked two major milestones in Jinja City’s urban transformation, unveiling a fully branded roundabout and breaking ground on the refurbishment of the iconic City Fountain at the Mayor’s Gardens at City Hall.
The initiatives form part of the telecom Company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance agenda under its Ambition 2025 Strategy, which focuses on sustainable growth, community development, and technological innovation.
The new MTN-branded roundabout, symbolizes movement, connection, and progress. The roundabout is a striking, industrial-themed landmark designed to celebrate Jinja’s legacy as Uganda’s industrial city.
Dominating the centre is a towering installation of interlocking cog wheels, a powerful symbol of industry, progress, and collaboration — values that once defined Jinja’s manufacturing identity.
The setup extends across a landscaped garden bed, featuring a bold yellow inscription that reads “Together, We’re Unstoppable. ”A decorative rock fountain with multiple jets of water adds a dynamic, cooling effect, giving the roundabout both movement and life.
The design pays homage to Jinja’s industrial past while symbolizing renewed energy for innovation and economic growth.
Set against the backdrop of clear skies and bright colour coordination, the new MTN-branded monument not only transforms the city’s visual landscape but also revives the spirit of Jinja as a hub of production, creativity, and connectivity.
Meanwhile, the planned refurbishment of the City Fountain will serve as a revitalized landmark representing renewal and community pride.
Speaking during the launch, on Wednesday, 8th October, MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s urban growth through impactful community partnerships.
“Cities like Jinja are central to Uganda’s growth, and we are proud to contribute to their transformation, supporting the beautification of our cities is part of our ESG commitment under Ambition 2025. We believe that connected, attractive cities inspire both residents and visitors, driving economic and social progress.” Said Mulinge
Jinja City Mayor Peter Kasolo Okocha commended MTN Uganda for its continued investment in the city’s development.
“We are delighted to partner with MTN Uganda on these initiatives. This project was fully funded by MTN Uganda, and the refurbishing of the fountain and branded roundabout will enhance our city’s beauty and create spaces that our residents can enjoy for years to come.” Said Mayor Kasolo.
The mayor explained that the roundabout features a water fountain symbolizing the River Nile and the logo of the Madhvani Group of Companies, representing Jinja’s industrial heritage.
Jinja Resident City Commissioner Richard Gulume echoed the mayor’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the city’s aesthetic appeal.
“Jinja is the sitting room of the Busoga subregion—it should always be clean and beautiful. When I visit a home and find the sitting room disorganized, I don’t need to check the bedroom,”. Reiterated RCC Gulume.
Representing the Busoga Kingdom, the Minister for Kyabazinga Affairs applauded MTN Uganda’s initiative and proposed including statues of the kingdom’s monarchs in the roundabout design.
