Indian Firms Ramp Up Efforts to Rid Jinja Schools Asbestos Roofing

Asbestos, once widely used for its durability and fire resistance, has since been identified as a significant health hazard

Walukuba West Primary School in Jinja City has become the latest beneficiary of an initiative by the Indian community to eliminate asbestos roofing in schools.

On Friday, January 10, 2025, MMI Steel Ltd, in partnership with Seva International, donated 120 iron sheets to the school.

This donation will be used to replace the asbestos roof on one of the school’s classroom blocks.

The initiative aims to phase out the hazardous material and provide safer alternatives for learning environments in Jinja schools.

“These iron sheets will help us replace a roof that poses serious health risks to our learners and staff,” said Mr Ziyadi Tamuzadde, headteacher of Walukuba West Primary School.

The school, which accommodates over 1,000 pupils, including those with special needs, has been grappling with the dangers posed by asbestos.

Asbestos, once widely used for its durability and fire resistance, has since been identified as a significant health hazard.

Exposure to its airborne fibres can cause life-threatening conditions such as mesothelioma and other respiratory diseases.

“If children learn in classrooms with these outdated materials, it affects them, potentially causing cancer,” Mr Tamuzadde emphasized.

Speaking at the event, Mr Kumar Raychura from MMI Steel reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving educational facilities.

“Providing these iron sheets is about creating a healthier environment where learners can thrive,” he said.

Seva International, which has also supported the school through a free breakfast program, played a vital role in the campaign.

“We feel very happy when we give. Serving humanity is serving God,” said Mr Jaman Mohan, the organization’s director.

The breakfast program, which provides porridge daily, has significantly improved learners’ concentration and academic performance.

The school’s Parent-Teacher Association chairperson, Ms Susan Nalubanga, expressed gratitude for the intervention, noting that the neglected classroom block had put learners at risk.

“This support from the Indian community is saving lives and improving education,” she said.

The asbestos phase-out campaign has already reached several other schools, including Busoga College Mwiri, Main Street Primary School, and Mwiri Primary School.

MMI Steel marketing executive Hassan Latif highlighted the company’s commitment to replacing all asbestos roofs in Jinja schools, ensuring safer learning environments.

Globally, asbestos has been banned in many countries due to its health risks, but it remains a challenge in developing regions where older buildings still utilize the material.

The initiative to replace asbestos roofs with safer materials, such as the 'Kiboko' iron sheets provided by MMI Steel, is a crucial step toward safeguarding public health in schools.

The joint efforts of MMI Steel and Seva International underline the importance of corporate social responsibility and community support in addressing pressing challenges in public health and education.

“Healthy children are better learners. By providing modern, safe roofing materials, we are investing in the future of our community,” Mr. Raychura remarked.

This collaborative campaign offers hope that Jinja schools will soon be free of the dangers posed by asbestos, creating safer and healthier environments for Uganda’s future generations.