Enock Ndyamuhakyi | Tayari News
KABALE – The planned handover of a newly constructed Shs 11.2 billion facility at Kabale Technical Institute has been halted after authorities discovered the absence of a mandatory occupation permit and insufficient furniture, raising concerns over legal compliance and operational readiness.
The facility, constructed under the Ministry of Education and Sports, is part of a government initiative to expand and modernize technical and vocational education across the country. The project is among eight institutions funded by the Islamic Development Bank, with construction works that began in 2024 executed by Ambitious Construction Company.
The infrastructure includes a sick bay, administration block, dormitories, a staff block, a main hall, computer laboratories, study rooms, paved walkways, a solar power system, and an extension of a three-phase hydropower supply.
However, an inspection conducted ahead of the official commissioning revealed that the buildings could not legally be occupied, prompting an immediate suspension of the handover process.
Former Chairperson of the Board of Governors, Eudia Mutabazi, strongly opposed proceeding without the required certification.
“We cannot allow students and staff to occupy these buildings without an occupation permit. It is not only illegal but also puts the institution at risk,” Mutabazi said.
She added, “A proper handover must ensure that all conditions are met. Without furniture and the necessary approvals, this facility cannot effectively serve its intended purpose.”
Mutabazi emphasized that safety and compliance must come first, warning against rushing the process.
“We must prioritize the safety of learners and staff. Even if the buildings look complete, compliance with the law is non-negotiable,” she stressed.
The Chief Head Trainer, Albert Mubingi Musinguzi, echoed similar concerns, noting that the institution is not willing to take risks by occupying incomplete or uncertified structures.
“As management, we are committed to ensuring that everything is done right. We cannot rush into these buildings before all legal and operational requirements are fulfilled,” Musinguzi said.
He further revealed that several issues were identified during inspection.
“We observed that some works are not yet fully completed. These gaps must be addressed first to ensure that the facility meets the required standards,” he explained.
Despite the delay, Musinguzi expressed optimism.
“We are hopeful that the responsible authorities will act quickly so that we can occupy the buildings in a safe and organized manner,” he added.
Project architect and manager Robert Kigundu acknowledged the delay, attributing it to unresolved administrative requirements.
“The handover has been paused to allow for the processing of the occupation permit. Without this document, occupancy is not permitted,” Kigundu said.
He revealed that financial issues are partly responsible for the delay.
“The contractor informed us that there are pending financial obligations between the Ministry and the municipal authorities, which must be cleared before the permit is issued,” he explained.
Kigundu, however, assured stakeholders that the situation is being handled.
“We expect that within two weeks, these issues will be resolved and the handover process can resume,” he noted.
He also clarified that the full project completion is still ongoing.
“The final handover will take place after the defects liability period of one year, once all outstanding works are completed and verified,” Kigundu said.
Meanwhile, the Project Technical Manager at the Ministry of Education, Paul Kariba, called for patience, assuring stakeholders that steps are being taken to address the challenges.
“We ask the institution and the public to remain patient. We are in the final stages of procuring a contractor to supply the required furniture,” Kariba said.
He added, “The procurement process is expected to take between four to six months, after which the facility will be fully equipped.”
Kariba also emphasized collaboration in resolving the permit issue.
“We are working closely with the institute administration and local authorities to ensure that the occupation permit is secured in time,” he stated.
He reassured stakeholders of the Ministry’s commitment.
“Our goal is to ensure that when the institute finally occupies these buildings, everything is in place to support effective teaching and learning,” he said.
The delay underscores the importance of aligning infrastructure development with regulatory compliance and logistical preparedness. Once completed and fully equipped, the facility is expected to significantly enhance technical education and skills development in the Kigezi region.