Police have commenced on investigations into the possible causes of fire which gutted Makerere University oldest building (Main Administration building) last night.
“Police are actively investigating a fire outbreak at Makerere University main building that started today at about midnight. Police fire and rescue team responded at the scene and managed to contain its spread.” Police posted on their social media platforms.
It is pains all over as unknown fire sources flames iconic administration building at Makerere University destroying millions of invaluable records and property.
According to the University, fire started at the roof top last night at around midnight spreading to half of the building where several offices were affected.
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.
“The Police Fire Brigade is trying to put out the fire which has now covered almost half of the roof. It’s a trying moment for us,” the university tweeted.
The Ivory Tower houses the offices of the Vice Chancellor, student records and other university historical records.
By publication time, the causes of fire had not been identified but police said investigations into the matter are under ways.
About the Ivory Tower
(Archives)
The Main Administration Building was completed in 1941 under the leadership of George C. Turner, the Principal, Makerere College (1939-46).
Earlier in 1938, theDuke of Gloucester, representing His Majesty King George VI had cut the first sod for the construction of the building on 3rd November.
The Main Building with its unique 20th century British architecture is easily Makerere’s most recognisable symbol and was constructed with funds from the Colonial Development hourse.
The building’s construction was greatly delayed by a scarcity of resources to purchase materials as Britain and her allies grappled with the expenses of World War II.
As a result, some of the carpentry work had to be done on-site at the Technical College.
The Principal then focused on turning Makerere into a University College and establishing buildings. As a result both the St. Francis and St. Augustine Chapels were completed in the same year 1941 and by 1944, plans for the establishment of a School of Civil Engineering at Makerere were already being discussed by the British House of Commons
