By Valentine Sande, Luanda
Luanda MP Dick Maungu has embarked on a transformative journey that would reshape the lives of area residents forever.
When he took office, the constituency faced numerous challenges. Many regions were isolated due to the absence of proper infrastructure, and access to education and electricity was limited. Determined to address these issues head-on, Maungu set forth an ambitious plan to foster growth and development through his I SEE agenda manifesto.
He started by identifying the most pressing needs of his constituents. With a comprehensive strategy in place, he began implementing a series of projects designed to leave a lasting impact.
“I promised to offer transformative leadership and that is exactly what I am doing. My development plan was pegged on the ‘I-SEE’ Agenda, with priority areas being Infrastructural Development, Improved Security, Education and Economic Empowerment,” said Maungu in an exclusive interview with the County Splash
He said that for the last two years, his development track record can speak for itself, saying on infrastructure, construction of three bridges in Wemilabi ward is complete and in use. These are Okonda, Osena and Musitinyi bridges.
Construction of Amwabia bridge in Luanda South, Eliangoma and Mwilulu bridges in Emabungo
Ward as well as Mulwanda bridge in Luanda South is also complete.
Construction of Desert and Afri bridges, both in Township ward, Kima – Emunwa- Ndekwa in Emabungo ward and Agoro bridge in Mwibona ward is underway. So far 13 bridges have been constructed across the constituency.
On the road network, Ekamanji-Mundika road, Esirabe-Esiembero – Atelo road, Ogaye-Awach-Oyinya-Ochuore-Luanda and Esinamutu-Mulwanda have all been graveled.
Others are Luanda-PAG-Epanga road, Mulele plaza-Ebusatsi road, Mwibona-Ebwiranyi, Waluka-Makuti-Eliangoma, Mumbita-Iboona-Mwilongo, Ibubi-Emuhaya, DCC-Ebulonga, Ebusiralo-Emmutsa and Esiandumba- Nandi- Ebusyubi road.
On security, construction of Ekwanda police station and Ekwanda Chief’s office is complete.
Emusenjeli chief’s office has not started but the contract has been awarded.
The construction for Ebusundi is almost complete and construction of Ibona chiefs’ office is underway. Renovations on Luanda Deputy County Commissioner’s office is complete while Ebbubayi chief’s office and police houses are all under renovations.
Educating the Future
Recognizing the importance of education in shaping a prosperous future, Maungu initiated the establishment of five new schools namely, Khusiututo primary, Esiamarwi primary, Esiembero secondary, Ebusiralo secondary and Irumbi secondary school. Ochuore primary school is in the pipeline.
The MP has also constructed two storey buildings at Esiembero primary and Irumbi secondary school.
“These schools were strategically located in underserved areas, ensuring that children from all corners of the constituency had access to quality education. Each school was equipped with modern facilities and staffed with dedicated teachers, creating an environment where students could thrive,” said Maungu
In addition to building schools, Maungu launched an ambitious bursary and scholarship program. Over 25,000 students benefited from these initiatives, which covered tuition fees, books, and other essential educational resources. This effort not only eased the financial burden on families but also encouraged many young people to pursue higher education and vocational training.
“About 52 students who scored 350 marks and above in 2022 KCPE exams have received full scholarship from the ‘Dick Maungu Foundation’, out of which 42 have enrolled in national schools. The students are now in Form Two. Another cohort of 58 students who sat for the 2023 exams, two from each of the 29 sub locations of the constituency have also received full scholarships,” the first time MP said
He added: “Construction of Luanda Technical and Vocational College (LTVC) at Emululu primary school in Mwibona ward is 70 percent complete and the first cohort of students are expected from May next year. I also have plans of establishing a medical training college to absorb the form four leavers,”
Lighting up the villages
One of the most impactful projects was the allocation of Sh136.8 million for last-mile electricity connections with at least 2000 homes connected to the electricity grid.
“The last mile of electricity connectivity will take between 8-10 months to be completed. It will have five transformers installed at Pap Komoro, Mwilala, Sikuku, Musilundu and Mungubu villages,” said Maungu, adding, “by having power in every corner of the constituency, it will create a safer environment for doing business and improve on the economic status of my people,”
