Business Magnate Sudhir Ruparelia Assures Timely Preparations at Summit Venue Ahead of NAM Summit

By Gad Masereka

Kampala, January 8, 2024 — Lucy Nakyobe, Chairperson of the National Organising Committee for the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit and G77+China summits, has concluded final inspections of the road infrastructure designated for use during the twin summits scheduled to take place in Kampala from January 15th to 20th.

The critical assessment, carried out over the weekend, saw Nakyobe joined by the Executive Director of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and Allen Kagina of the Uganda National Roads Authority, both members of the organising committee.

Nakyobe reported that all preparations have been completed, ensuring that Uganda is well-prepared to host over 160 delegations from 135 countries. The assessed roads included Queens Way, Mukwano Road, and Gaba Road leading to Speke Resort Munyonyo, the venue for the twin summits.

She noted that only “auxiliary works” on infrastructure are outstanding, such as the installation of road signs and lane demarcation, particularly on newly opened routes like the Kampala flyover, which is set to open its pedestrian walkway today.

Several roads, including Cape/Wavamuno Road, Ggaba Road, Mukwano Road, and Press House Road, underwent drainage repair and pavement improvement. Culvert crossings for drainage on Cape Road (Auto Spa) and Ggaba Road (Bunga-Soya) were also installed.

In addition to the main routes, the organizing committee addressed selected hotels’ access routes and diversion paths during the summit. Roads such as UCB Rise, Mobutu Road, Prince Badru Kakungulu Road, Salaama Road, Tankhill, and Seriso Road have undergone repairs and enhancements.

During her visit to Speke Resort Munyonyo, the summit venue, on Saturday, Nakyobe received assurances from businessman Sudhir Ruparelia that all preparations at the prestigious venue would be completed by January 10.

In a related development, the transport department of the organizing committee conducted drills to ensure the seamless transportation of delegates to and from the conference venue during the summit. As the countdown to the NAM Summit begins, all signs point to a well-prepared and organized hosting by Uganda, affirming its readiness on the global stage.