The Makerere University main gate will remain open, despite works ongoing to finish its construction. The University's Public Relations Officer, Ritah Namisango says the partial opening was in response to requests from the students and employees of the university.

"The main gate was at one time closed because it was under construction. The staff and students were requested to acess the university through either the western or eastern gates. But they provided feedback requesting that when the major works are completed, they should be allowed to use the main gate which the university authorities complied with so it will not be closed."

The main gate is still open for use although only one side is open. This has led to heavy traffic flow as cars entering or exiting the university have to move slow to either check in or out of the institution in addition to students who foot.

Mugalya Ambrose, the in-charge of traffic at the main gate said “We were deployed to control traffic here at the main gate, but it is really hectic because controlling vehicles and students that pass through one part of the gate is not easy." He added that "the heavy traffic flow at the main gate is caused by the fact that one side of the gate is used for both entrance and exit. I only allow one car to enter or get out, therefore those footing have to first wait for vehicles to pass and then they can proceed."

"The main gate cannot be closed because most of the new students don't know the other two gates," Mugalya adds.

There are students affected by this. "I always have to wait for cars to pass so that I can rush for lectures because each time I use the main gate, I always find a car moving in or out. And this is the only university gate I know and is convenient for me. At one time, the builders nearly accidentally poured water on me as I accessed the gate," commented Mirembe Marion, a first year BBA student.

Ms Namisango could not reveal when the construction works would end, but said the works are still within the contract period. The MAK main gate construction is part of KCCA's five year-project which is estimated to cost Shs 638bn from the World Bank.