Stanbic’s Mark Ocitti and Mumba Kalifungwa handover the Shs 100m Cheque to Kabale University management led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Associate Professor Helen Byamugisha and RDC Major (Rtd) Godfrey Katamba
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I In a gesture of kindness aimed at celebrating 35 years of operating in Uganda, Stanbic Bank has donated 35 solar-powered street lights to Kabale University in a move aimed at strengthening security and improving the learning environment at the institution.
The street lights, valued at approximately Shs100 million, are expected to improve visibility across the university campus, particularly during evening hours, while also promoting the use of clean and renewable energy.
The donation forms part of activities marking Stanbic Bank Uganda’s 35 years of operations under Standard Bank Group.
Investing in people
Stanbic Bank Uganda Chief Executive Officer Mumba Kalifungwa said the donation reflects the bank’s belief that investing in people and communities provides one of the most sustainable ways of driving national development.
“As we celebrate 35 years of operating in Uganda, we are reminded that our success is closely linked to the progress of the communities we serve,” Kalifungwa said.
He said anniversaries provide an opportunity not only to celebrate achievements but also to consider how institutions can create greater impact in the years ahead.
“Our answer is simple: invest in people. Thirty-five solar-powered street lights represent more than a commemorative gift,” he said.
Kalifungwa said the lights would make a practical difference by enhancing safety and security for students, lecturers and visitors moving around the campus after dark.
“Every student who walks safely across campus in the evening and every lecturer who leaves work with greater confidence will remind us that meaningful partnerships create lasting impact,” he said.
The initiative is particularly significant for students who attend evening lectures, conduct research or remain on campus late for private study.
Students welcome security boost
Kabale University Guild President Justus Drake Kyarikunda said the installation of the lights addresses a long-standing concern among students, especially those attending evening classes and late-night study sessions.
“We appreciate Stanbic Bank for partnering with the university to improve safety and the overall student experience,” Kyarikunda said.
Kabale Resident District Commissioner Major (Rtd) Godfrey Katamba also welcomed the initiative, noting that security is fundamental to creating a conducive environment for learning.
The additional lighting is expected to reduce dark spots around the campus and give students and staff greater confidence when moving between lecture rooms, residences and other university facilities at night.
Renewable energy takes centre stage
For Kabale University, the project goes beyond security.
Associate Professor Helen Musanabera Byamugisha, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, who represented the Vice Chancellor, described the donation as a timely investment in campus infrastructure and safety.
“We are grateful to Stanbic Bank for this valuable contribution. The solar-powered street lights will improve visibility and create a safer environment for students and staff,” she said.
Byamugisha said the project also supports the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability by encouraging renewable energy and reducing dependence on conventional electricity.
She expressed hope that the relationship with Stanbic would grow beyond infrastructure to include financial literacy, research and student empowerment programmes.
Education as a national investment
Kalifungwa commended Kabale University for expanding access to higher education since becoming a public university in 2015 and for its contribution to research, community outreach and regional development.
“Education remains one of the most important investments any country can make because universities nurture the leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists and innovators who will solve tomorrow’s challenges,” he said.
Stanbic’s investment in education, he noted, also includes initiatives such as the Stanbic National Schools Championship, which promotes innovation among young people.
The bank is also implementing its Positive Impact Agenda, through which it aims to mobilise Shs1 trillion by 2028 to empower women, youth and farmers through financial inclusion, enterprise development and sustainable growth.
From 42 students to a regional university
Established in 2002 by the people of Kigezi, Kabale University has grown from an institution with just 42 students into a public university serving learners from Uganda and neighbouring countries.
The university offers programmes in medicine, agriculture, engineering, computing, law, education, tourism and other disciplines.
Its mission focuses on providing quality education, research and innovation for societal transformation.
The partnership with Stanbic therefore places the 35 solar street lights within a broader investment in education, security and sustainability.
