By Henry Mukasa
The Kabaka, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has commissioned a multibillion commercial plaza at Katwe near the city centre as the kingdom unveiled plans to invest more in real estate to boost revenue and further sustain the kingdom.
The expansive Muganzirwazza Commercial Complex is named after Nakazzi Muganzirwazza, the Namasole (queen mother) of the late king Muteesa I.
Neither the Katikkiro Eng. J.B Walusimbi nor the chairman of the Buganda Land Board (BLB) Eng. Martin Kasekende disclosed the cost of the magnificent building, but sources said several billions were spent on the four year project. Complant, a Chinese construction firm, was the lead contractor.
“I am delighted to commission this commercial plaza. We should take pride in this project because it is a testimony to the importance of proper planning.
Sometimes our things are not well planned but today, we are witnessing the fruits of planning,” Kabaka Mutebi stated.
The Kabaka, who arrived after a heavy down pour, was jovial. The sounds of the drum, dancing and singing filled the busy Katwe township as dwellers abandoned work, stood on top of buildings and perched on trees to welcome the Kabaka.
He unveiled a foundation stone and toured the building, taking off time to stand at the four roof top to wave at the crowds. Katikkiro Walusimbi observed that after the completion of the Muganzirwazza plaza that commenced on November 22 in 2008, the kingdom would embark on Bulange plaza and several other income generating projects.
“The completion of this project thrusts us into the future with confidence and experience to do more. I therefore appeal to the central government to return all the Kabaka’s properties to enable the kingdom implement its plans smoothly,” Walusimbi implored.
Kasekende explained that BLB is executing a five-year development with several income generating projects of a similar nature.
He said supermarket chain Nakumatt and several banks have already booked space on Muganzirwazza plaza, which will be managed by property agency Knight and Frank. Several traditional and political leaders attended the function.
