Police has launched an investigation into the fire that ravaged Makerere University’s Main historical building in the wee hours of Sunday morning.
Although the fire was put out of action by fire brigade, the roof of the building was already destroyed beyond repair. “Police are actively investigating a fire outbreak at Makerere University Main building that started today at about midnight. Fire and rescue services responded at the scene and managed to contain it’s spread,” deputy Kampala police spokesperson, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, said.
ASP Owoyesigyire said the fire is believed to have started from the roof spreading to floors that house both records and finance departments, a lot of property has been destroyed. “Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the exact cause of the fire,” ASP Owoyesigyire said.
Makerere University posted on its social media account around 1am reporting about the fire incident adding that fire brigade was working hard to extinguish it. However, by the time Makerere posted on its social media account, the fire had already ravaged the entire roof.
“The fire brigade is on ground. Everyone is trying their best. The fire is heavy and sprouting from the right side of the Building. The fire flames are heavy coming through right side of the roof which has sunk in. We all need to pray for the Ivory Tower,” Makerere posted at around 1am.
Makerere University Main among other offices including the university’s main-hall, the printer and Vice Chancellor’s office. Fire has gutted the building also known as the ‘Ivory Tower’ of Ugandan education, when studies for finalists and medical students was to resume a few weeks from now.
Having been completed in 1941 under the headship of then Principal George turner, Makerere Main Administration Building is one of the university’s oldest structures. Many refer to it as the most prominent building.
Other buildings that have similar history with Main Building also known as Administration Block include St. Francis and St. Augustine Chapels because they constructed and finished in the same year 1941 and by 1944. This was at the time when plans for the establishment of a School of Civil Engineering were underway when Uganda was being led by British as colonial rulers.