By Diana N.Kintu
Minsa Kabanda, the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs and Member of Parliament for Kampala Central, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Kampala during a thanksgiving ceremony held at Old Kampala Secondary School.
The event was organised to thank God and recognise the support of voters who secured her victory in a constituency widely regarded as an opposition stronghold.
Kabanda, who emerged victorious in 364 polling stations, attributed her success to her record of service delivery.
She highlighted achievements such as improved road maintenance, enhanced street lighting, better rubbish collection, and support extended to traders during the construction of the Nakivubo Channel.
Through the Kabanda Foundation, she said many young people and women have also been empowered through skills development programmes in tailoring, soap-making, and poultry farming.
“I have become a mother to Kampala. We have reduced strikes because people feel supported,” she said.
The thanksgiving ceremony attracted praise from senior government leaders. Milly Babalanda congratulated Kabanda on her swearing-in, describing it as a reflection of hard work, dedication, and the trust placed in her by the people of Kampala Central.
“As you begin this term, I pray that God grants you wisdom, strength, good health, and discernment to serve with integrity and be a voice for those who need it most. May your work bring meaningful change and opportunities to the people you represent,” Babalanda said.
Other leaders also commended Kabanda’s efforts. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo thanked voters for trusting Kabanda and Yoweri Museveni, while Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, who attended as the guest of honour, praised Kabanda’s mobilisation skills and linked her success to broader government achievements, including the establishment of new electricity substations in Mutundwe.
Kabanda also highlighted her approach to maintaining order in the city’s business areas, noting that traders were given one month to relocate, which helped prevent conflict.
“By the 30th, most of them had relocated peacefully. The exercise was carried out successfully without vandalism,” she explained.
She further addressed challenges affecting residents in ghetto communities such as Kamwokya and Kisenyi, emphasising her personal connection as a native of Kisenyi II.
“Children from ghetto communities are our own. They did not choose that life; they simply lacked opportunities. We must equip them with skills and provide them with better options,” she said.
Kabanda also celebrated her supporters by awarding medals, certificates, and boda bodas to individuals who helped safeguard her votes during the election.
“I thank my voters for securing and protecting my victory. Together, we have reclaimed Kampala for the NRM,” she concluded.