UNMA launches construction of Masindi based weather station
MASINDI Uganda National Metrological Authority [UNMA] has started the construction of a weather station in Masindi district.
The facility is being erected at Masindi Booma grounds along Masindi Port road in Masindi Municipality. It will house gadgets that measure the speed of wind, wind direction, rainfall, solar radiation, air temperature, air pressure, and relative humidity.
According to Julius Kiprop Kapkwomu the acting director of station networks and observation, the facility sits on o.488 hactares, adding that they are going to fence off the land with concrete pillars and a chain link.
“The construction work has been allocated to Hibery construction company and it’s going to cost Shs 45 million. The people of this area and the local government leaders should closely monitor the construction works to enable us get quality work. This facility should be managed well because it’s the one we use to tell the weather forecast in the area,” Kiprop said during the launch of the construction works at Booma grounds on Tuesday.
Kiprop added that countrywide they have 53 weather stations that are analog and 193 weather stations which are automated.
“The government has directed us to reach every district with automated weather stations. Currently, we have 62 percent of automated weather stations in 90 districts. We expect by 2025 to be at 80 percent,” Kiprop added.
He further called upon the local leadership to support the construction works which are expected to end in one month.
“I urge you to jealousy guard this facility because it’s where we get data and analyse it before giving you the right data. Without this facility we cannot give you the right information,” he said.
He called upon the residents to always use the area office in case they want the right data regarding the weather in the area.
The function was also witnessed by Ronald Businge Kyomuhendo the mayor of Masindi Municipality who promised to ensure that the facility is protected.
“We are going to keep this facility and also do close supervision for the construction works since the data which is got from here benefits us all,” said Kyomuhendo.
The contractor is among other things expected to put a chain link, double gates, and a small gate where people including students will be passing while going to carry out studies.
https://thecooperator.news/masindi-residents-decry-poor-extension-services/
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