Kabale University Receives Solar Security Lights Worth Shs100 Million from Stanbic Bank

Kabale, Uganda | September 9, 2026

Kabale University has received 35 solar-powered security street lights worth Shs100 million from Stanbic Bank Uganda, significantly boosting campus security, safety, and sustainable infrastructure development.

The solar lights were officially handed over during a ceremony held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the Auditorium in the New Education Faculty Building on the University’s main campus at Kikungiri Hill.

Speaking during the handover, Stanbic Bank Uganda Chief Executive, Mumba Kenneth Kalifungwa, said the donation forms part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, which seeks to improve the well-being of communities where the bank operates.

Kalifungwa explained that the donation of 35 solar lights was symbolic, marking Stanbic Banks 35 years of existence.

“We are making a donation of 35 streetlights to improve lighting at Kabale University as part of our corporate social responsibility,” he said.

He noted that Stanbic Bank’s purpose extends beyond banking services to contributing to Uganda’s socio-economic development, with its social investment focusing on women, youth, and farmers.

“As university students fall within the youth category, they deserve a safe and secure environment in which to pursue their education,” Kalifungwa said.

He observed that inadequate lighting had been identified as one of the major challenges affecting students, particularly those returning from the library during the late evening hours.

“By making this donation, we are helping create a safer learning environment that enables students to pursue their education with confidence,” he added.

Kalifungwa further revealed that the initiative was identified through Stanbic Bank’s Kabale Branch after consultations with the University, during which improved campus lighting emerged as one of the institution’s priority needs.

Government Applauds the Initiative

The Kabale District Resident District Commissioner, Major (Rtd) Godfrey Katamba, welcomed the partnership, describing security as a fundamental requirement for any institution of higher learning.

He said the solar lights will improve visibility across previously dark sections of the campus while enhancing the effectiveness of university security personnel in preventing crime and safeguarding students and staff.

“University is a home, a center for research and a place where students should feel entirely safe. This contribution addresses one of our highest priorities security,” Katamba said.

He encouraged the University to ensure proper maintenance of the solar lights so they continue serving the institution for many years.

University Commends Stanbic Bank

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Helen Musanabera Byamugisha, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, expressed gratitude to Stanbic Bank for its continued support towards the University’s development.

She said the installation of the solar lights will significantly improve visibility along walkways, around learning spaces, and within residential areas, particularly for students and staff who remain on campus during the evening.

Prof Helen Byamugisha noted that campus security and infrastructure development remain among Kabale University’s strategic priorities.

She added that the adoption of solar-powered lighting aligns with the University’s commitment to environmental sustainability through the use of renewable energy while reducing dependence on conventional electricity.

She further described Stanbic Bank as a valued long-term development partner and expressed optimism that the collaboration would continue to expand into other areas, including financial literacy programs and student empowerment initiatives.

Partnership Built Over Two Decades

Kabale University Secretary Johnson Munono Baryantuma highlighted the long-standing relationship between the University and Stanbic Bank, noting that the institution has entrusted the bank with its financial operations for many years.

He observed that inadequate lighting has remained one of the challenges affecting students, especially those returning from the library late at night, and expressed confidence that the new solar lights will eliminate many of the campus’ dark spots.

Stanbic Bank Kabale Branch Manager Amon Tiberondwa said the partnership between the bank and Kabale University dates back to 2002, when the University enrolled only about 42 students.

He thanked the University for maintaining the partnership over the years and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting community development initiatives.

“Today we are here to give back to the community. As a bank, we believe in supporting the communities that have supported us,” Tiberondwa said.

Students Welcome Improved Campus Security

Kabale University Guild President H.E. Justus Drake Kyarikunda welcomed the project, noting that many students have long faced difficulties moving around campus after late-night study sessions.

He said the installation of the solar security lights fulfils one of his key manifesto commitments to improve campus lighting within the first 100 days of his leadership.

Kyarikunda thanked Stanbic Bank for partnering with the University to make the initiative possible.

The donation further strengthens the enduring partnership between Stanbic Bank Uganda and Kabale University, which has spanned more than two decades. University leaders said the project will contribute to a safer, more secure and conducive learning environment while advancing the institution’s commitment to improved infrastructure, student welfare and sustainable development.

Event Photos