The newly elected Mayor of Kisoro, Mbonigaba John, popularly known as John King, has unveiled an ambitious development agenda focused on improving access to clean water, roads, education, health services and tourism in the municipality.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony held at Kisoro Municipality grounds, Mayor John King said the municipality will work closely with the National Water and Sewerage Corporation Kisoro branch to address persistent water shortages through a new initiative known as the “Poor Connecting Project.”
Running as an Independent, Mbonigaba defeated NRM flag bearer and Kisoro District Vice Chairperson Alex Nambajimana. He secured 4,189 votes (60.2%), while Nambajimana garnered 1,798 votes (25.85%). Other contenders included Ramadhan Ndikuyeze (808 votes), Caleb Tuyishime (106 votes), Muhumuza Emmanuel (39 votes), and Owen Ahimbisibwe of the People’s Front for Freedom (18 votes).
According to the mayor, several areas and corridors within the municipality still lack access to safe and clean water, a challenge he said affects both health and sanitation in the community.
He noted that the municipality plans to partner with relevant stakeholders to ensure residents receive reliable water services as part of efforts to improve public health and living conditions.
Beyond water access, the mayor highlighted road rehabilitation as another key priority. He specifically mentioned the rehabilitation of Chuho Road and Mutanda Road, as well as the improvement of the Mayor’s Garden to enhance the appearance of the municipality.
John King also pledged to strengthen the education sector by improving school infrastructure, rehabilitating school buildings and providing better furniture for learners to promote quality education.
The mayor further emphasized the importance of teamwork among council leaders, technical staff, and local leaders in improving security and health services within the municipality.
During his address, he called on residents to work together to develop Kisoro Municipality and to avoid conflicts, including religious divisions, that could hinder progress.
At the same ceremony, Rwangeyo Charlotte was unveiled as the new Deputy Mayor of Kisoro Municipality. Other appointments included Mbonigaba Augustine as Secretary for Finance and Joachim Hashakimana as Secretary for Works and Production.
Meanwhile, Geoffrey Nkurunziza Nsubuga retained his position as Municipal Speaker after defeating Joachim Hashakimana and Michael Tumwizere in the election. Annah Owomugisha will deputise him.
