Alice
The five-year Virika Cathedral renovation project, which cost 3.460 billion shillings, has officially been closed, with the project committee handing over its final reports to the Bishop of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Robert Muhiirwa.
The official closure ceremony was held over the weekend at Arch Echo Lodge Hotel in Harubaho, Fort Portal City, providing an opportunity to appreciate the contributions of the various stakeholders who supported the successful implementation of the project following a defects Liability Period by the contractor.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Vicar General of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese and chairperson of the Virika Cathedral renovation project steering committee, Msgr. Isaiah Mayombo, said the project took five years to complete at a total cost of 3.460 billion shillings.
Msgr. Mayombo explained that the committee handed over the final accounts, project completion report, a list of contributors and the auditors’ report to Bishop Muhiirwa as part of the formal closure process.
He expressed satisfaction with the committee’s work, thanking all individuals and institutions that supported the project financially, spiritually and through advice.
Maintenance of the Cathedral
Meanwhile, Bishop Muhiirwa commended Msgr. Mayombo, the chair person steering committee, the construction and finance committees, the construction company, and all contributors from within and outside the diocese for their role in renovating the cathedral.
Bishop Muhiirwa revealed that a maintenance committee led by Msgr. Mayombo had been tasked with ensuring that the cathedral is properly maintained and remains in good condition.
He also called upon the parish priest of Virika parish, Rev. Fr. Titus Winyi, the council of laity and Christians to take responsibility for protecting and maintaining the cathedral.
The closure of the project marks the completion of the renovation exercise and the beginning of continued efforts to preserve the cathedral for future generations.