The management of Makerere University has handed over the main building also commonly referred to as the Ivory Tower to contractor, Excel Construction company.
The 81-year old main building developed cracks after catching fire on November 20, 2020, and will be demolished in two weeks’ time to pave way for construction of a similar building, sources revealed.
The prestigious building, which is also the University’s most recognizable landmark, has a 20th Century British architecture. Its construction was completed in 1941 during the leadership of Mr George C. Turner.
The project
The University Vice chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe revealed in a recent interview, that the building should be completed in time for the university’s century celebrations in August.
“We handed over the site to Excel Construction Company that won the bid. They are slated to start construction immediately. If they work day and night, the building should be ready before we celebrate our 100 years,” Prof Nawangwe said yesterday.
The main building houses a number of offices for the university’s top managers, including the vice chancellor, deputy vice chancellor in-charge of finance and administration, the university secretary and the university bursar.
Prof Nawangwe said the aftermath of the fire didn’t leave the building the same, and since it has developed cracks, it has to be torn down and reconstructed.
Cabinet last year approved Shs21b for reconstruction of the main building to match its previous form as a way of conserving its architectural character.
Cabinet also approved the entire demolition of the building.
Prof Nawangwe said Parliament approved the supplementary budget and Ministry of Finance would soon release the funds.
Prof Nawangwe appealed to the Ministry of Finance to release this money to enable the university pay the contractor at every stage of construction.
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