Like Theodore Roosevelt the 26th President of the United States of America, known for his progressive policies, strong leadership and emphasis on education, conservation and personal development, former Jinja Municipal Council Speaker Abubaker Maganda has vowed to revive the Mayor’s Bursary scheme, a program that provided financial support to needy pupils and students in Jinja City.
The scheme, initiated during the reign of Ambassador Hajji Beswari Kezaala (now serving as Deputy Head of Mission in Doha, Qatar), was popular for supporting bright but disadvantaged children access education.
Unfortunately, all subsequent mayors like Majid Batambuze and now Alton Peter Kasolo ‘Okocha’ failed to revive the scheme leading to hundreds of would-be beneficiaries no opportunity for formal education.
Maganda, who is vying for the Jinja City Southern Division Mayor seat on FDC ticket, made the promise as part of his campaign pledge.
“…as I reflect on the progress of our great city, I am reminded of the transformative power of education, that the mayor’s (Kezaala) Bursary Scheme was a beacon of hope for many families…”, Maganda said adding that its discontinuation has left a void in the community.
He lamented that the scheme was discontinued after Kezaala left office, and instead of reviving it, leaders have been busy seeking personal benefits from companies that previously supported the bursary.
“…If elected, I will revive the Mayor’s Bursary scheme within my first 100 days in office,” Maganda said. “I will set up a credible committee comprising of well-respected individuals to manage the program, ensuring hundreds of needy children benefit from it…”
Maganda, who had previously locked horns with Kezaala, now lauds the former mayor’s visionary leadership, crediting him with initiating the bursary scheme backed by Bidco Uganda Limited (BUL).
The irony is not lost at all because it seems Maganda is now singing a different tune, praising Kezaala’s efforts in education with “Basima Ogenze” vibes (By Jose Chameleon whose real names is Joseph Mayanja)- appreciating the legacy that was left behind.
He bemoans the program’s discontinuation, citing the plight of deserving students left without support.
“Basima Ogenze,” indeed – praising Kezaala’s commendable legacy in education, Maganda pledges to revive and expand the scheme, empowering more children to reach their full potential.
“…Ambassador Kezaala’s legacy in promoting education is truly commendable, I plan to build on that foundation and take the scheme to new heights empowering more children to reach their full potential…”, he pledged.
The revival of the Mayor’s Bursary scheme is being seen as a crucial initiative to support education in Jinja City, particularly for vulnerable children from low-income families.
Maganda’s promise has been welcomed by residents, who hope that the scheme will be restored to its former glory.
Under Maganda’s plan, the committee will oversee the management of the bursary, ensuring transparency and accountability in the selection of beneficiaries.
The scheme’s revival is expected to make a significant impact on the lives of many needy students, enabling them to access quality education and break the cycle of poverty.
Youth Unemployment and Walukuba Housing Estate Issue
In addition to reviving the Mayor’s Bursary scheme, Abubaker Maganda has also promised to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment in Jinja.
He highlighted his past efforts to empower youth through skills development programs at a facility on Plot 49 Spire Road. Unfortunately, the facility was sold, leaving the youth without a place for empowerment.
“…I had from 2001-2006 started a skills development program to equip our youth with the skills they need to succeed in life, however, the sale of the facility has hindered our progress. As Mayor, I will ensure that we establish a new and better facility to support our youth and provide them with the opportunities they deserve…,”, he pledges.
Maganda also touched on the contentious issue of the sale of the Walukuba Housing Estate, which has been a point of contention for many years. Many former tenants were left out of the process, and the issue remains unresolved to date.
“…the sale of the former Walukuba Housing Estate has been a thorn in the flesh of many Jinja residents for over 20 years, as Mayor, I pledge to make it a priority to solve this issue once and for all. We will work with all stakeholders to ensure that the rights of our residents are protected and that justice is served…”
Maganda’s commitment to addressing these pressing issues has resonated with the vulnerable residents, who are eager for change and progress in their city.
His promises to support education, empower youth, and resolve long-standing issues have earned him significant support among voters.
“…Abubaker Maganda is the leader we need in Jinja,” said one resident. “He has a vision for our city and the determination to make it happen. We should give him a chance to lead and transform our city.
With over two decades of leadership experience, starting as a youth leader in 2001, Abubaker Maganda is confident in his ability to tackle the pressing issues facing Jinja City.
One of the major concerns he highlighted is the city’s garbage problem, which has become a perennial issue.
“…the cry of our residents is loud and clear, the mountains of foul-smelling garbage piled along our roads and streets, including around the Jinja Central Market are a blight on our city…” Maganda remarks.
Blocked drainage systems are a nuisance, and it’s unacceptable that we’ve become synonymous with garbage. As Mayor, I am committed to finding solutions to this problem…”, he said.
Maganda also emphasizes that solid and liquid waste management is a challenge faced by many urban areas, but he believes that with visionary leadership and a willingness to learn from others, Jinja City can overcome this issue.
“…there’s no problem without a solution, we just need leaders who are committed to finding answers. I’m willing to learn from successful cities and implement innovative solutions to tackle our garbage problem…”, the FDC eastern Coordinator says.
Garbage disposal and management is a significant challenge in many urban areas, including Jinja City, due to several factors:
Rapid Urbanization: Urban areas are growing rapidly, leading to increased waste generation, straining existing infrastructure.
Inadequate Infrastructure: Insufficient waste collection systems, lack of proper disposal facilities, and poor drainage systems exacerbate the problem.
Limited Resources: Cities, municipalities or town councils often struggle with limited budgets, equipment, and personnel to effectively manage waste.
Public Awareness: Lack of awareness and education on proper waste disposal practices contributes to littering and environmental degradation.
These issues lead to environmental and health concerns, such as pollution, disease spread, and unpleasant living conditions.
According to analysts, Maganda’s experience and commitment to public service have earned him the trust of many residents, who are eager for change and progress in their city.
His pledge to address the garbage problem is seen as a crucial step towards improving the quality of life for Jinja’s residents and restoring the city’s beauty.
