Phase 1 of the AVTI Kitchen Project was successfully commissioned today, October 10, 2024. This milestone marks the completion of the dining rooms, a crucial component of the project.
The completed dining area can accommodate a large number of students, providing a comfortable and conducive space for meals.
We are grateful for the support and collaboration of all stakeholders involved in this project. The AVTI Kitchen Project is a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality construction solutions that meet the needs of our clients.
Through our services tailored in the sanitation field to Adilang Vocational Training Institute, the institution has successfully implemented sustainable sanitation practices through the construction of Urine Diversion Dry Toilets (UDDTs). These innovative toilets offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for waste management in the institution. We are looking at sensitizing the community to adopting to this sanitation approach of handing human waste.
Educational Guide for Using UDDTs with Ashes
UDDTs, or Urine Diversion Dry Toilets, are a sustainable and eco-friendly sanitation solution that separate urine and faeces. The urine is diverted to a separate chamber, while the faeces are dried using ashes. This method reduces water consumption, produces valuable fertilizer, and helps prevent the spread of diseases.
Urine Diversion:
When using the UDDT, sqaut and ensure your urine flows into the designated urine chamber. This will help prevent mixing with the faeces.
Faeces Collection:
After using the toilet, sprinkle a layer of ashes over the faeces. This will help absorb moisture and reduce odours.
Use the provided scoop or shovel to distribute the ashes evenly.
Regular Maintenance:
Empty the urine chamber periodically to prevent overflow and odour.
Collect the dried sludge from the faeces chamber and use it as fertilizer for your garden or farm.
Add more ashes as needed to maintain proper moisture absorption.
Hygiene Practices:
Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the UDDT.
Avoid touching the toilet seat or other surfaces with your bare hands.
Step-by-Step Guide
Associated Benefits
Cost Efficiency
UDDTs are significantly more cost-effective than traditional pit latrines and flush toilets, as they do not require a water supply or sewer connection, do not require very deep earth pit excavation and lining works. This reduces the initial construction and maintenance costs, making them a viable option for rural areas.
Water Conservation
UDDTs significantly reduce water consumption compared to traditional flush toilets. By diverting urine and faeces into separate chambers, UDDTs minimize the need for water for flushing. This conserves water resources, particularly in regions with limited water availability.
Dried Sludge Reuse
The dried sludge produced by UDDTs can be used as a valuable organic fertilizer for the school’s garden. This practice promotes sustainable agriculture and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers that have other adverse environmental problems.
Operation and Maintenance
UDDTs require minimal maintenance and operation. The urine chamber is periodically emptied, and the dried sludge can be collected for use as fertilizer. Proper hygiene practices, such as handwashing, are essential to prevent the spread of diseases.
Challenges and Best Practices / Lessons learnt.
One of the main challenges encountered in the implementation of UDDTs is educating users on proper usage. Some students may not be familiar with the concept of urine diversion and may require training on how to use the toilets correctly. To address this, the institute is implementing educational programs and instructions.
Traditional belief among the locals for example if ashes is sprinkled on top of human waste then someone can die. etc. are some of the challenges that need to be addressed by continuous education of some people.
Conclusion
The construction of UDDTs at the Adilang Vocational Training Institute demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. These toilets offer a cost-effective, water-efficient, and environmentally friendly solution for waste management. By addressing challenges such as user education and proper maintenance, the institute can ensure the long-term success of its sanitation program.
Akide Grace the female builder walks towards me so calmly, with an anxious face that had no idea what to expect from the interview. As she drew closer, Grace is dark skinned with a smooth and clear skin complexation, a beautiful wide smile and medium sized 25 year old lady, born from a family of 3 children, Grace is the only girl .She is a resident of Kilokoitio village, Nyekidi parish, Laperebong Sub County, Agago district. Grace is a student at Adilang vocational training Institute (AVTI) pursuing a national certificate in building and construction year one. Grace and her course mates have practical part of their studies from Rostwa Engineers company sites in Adilang where several AVTI school blocks are being constructed.
Grace during work
Grace during work
On Fridays which is the only day with full time practical lessons, she normally wakes up at 5:30 am, freshens up, leaves for morning preps that runs from 6:00am-8:00.am.The practical lessons start off at 8:00am till 5:00pm with only 30 minutes breaks at 10:30am then an hours break from 1:00pm.She says working with men is not bad, since they are willing to share knowledge that she might not have understood in class hence polishing her skills. During work most of students and site workers share a lot of stories both educative and comical which makes work push on easily.
When asked about her how she finds working with men being that she is the only female, She smiled and said, ‘‘whenever I go to site, workers get so excited to see me, I don’t know why’’. Her School Administrator Mr. Okello Tonny says, ‘’Grace is one of the best performers in her class, she is very active in and outside class and holds the position of UNSA(Uganda National Students Association) president at the institute’’
Her future plan is to be an independent lady so that she can encourage other ladies who aren’t independent that it’s possible. She wants to get done with the certificate, upgrade to diploma then degree. She hopes to be an instructor of Building and construction or Administrator of an engineering company. Grace hopes to be married one day after all the studies are done and she chose being an instructor or administration because it doesn’t need much movement hence stable marital home.
Her advice to young girls is, ‘As long as you are alive, as a girl you need to try to get something to keep you independent, what a man can do a woman can do’. Her slogan for life is ‘start from nowhere but hope that you will reach somewhere’
As the sun was shining brightly, lesser noise away from Kampala city, I laid down on my bed reflecting about how to navigate through life, suddenly my phone rang at 2:16pm on the 7th September, 2019 from the other side a soft feminine voice was so clear and loud about how I had been granted an opportunity to work as an Administrator with Rostwa Engineers! that’s how the journey began.
Ms Atim Juliet in office during The Rostwa Cultural Day 2023
As I reflect on the past five years at Rostwa Engineers, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude. Reaching this milestone as an administrator has been a rewarding experience, filled with growth, challenges, and countless learning opportunities. What started as a fresh chapter in my career has evolved into a journey of self-discovery, teamwork, and professional development.
Rostwa Engineers has always been more than just a workplace. From day one, I was welcomed into an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect. Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication each member of this organization brings to their work, and it has been inspiring.
As an administrator, I’ve had the privilege of supporting the company’s operations from behind the scenes. Managing day-to-day tasks, coordinating with various departments, and ensuring the smooth flow of information within the organization has allowed me to self-discover my potential in different aspects of work.
Like any journey, the past five years have not been without challenges. Navigating the complexities of project timelines, resource management, and shifting priorities tested my organizational skills and adaptability. However, these challenges only strengthened my problem-solving abilities and taught me the value of resilience. Rostwa Engineers has always been supportive of employee development and providing opportunities for training that have not only enriched my skills but also made me a more confident and competent administrator.
As I celebrate this 5-year milestone, I look forward to continuing this incredible journey with Rostwa Engineers. The future holds exciting projects and new challenges, and I am eager to contribute to the company’s continued success. I am grateful for the trust and opportunities I’ve been given, and I remain committed to supporting the vision and mission of Rostwa Engineers as we move forward.
In closing, I want to thank my colleagues, mentors, and the leadership at Rostwa Engineers for their unwavering support and for making these five years such a rewarding experience. Here’s to many more years of growth, success, and innovation!
Project updates on the construction of the Technical Management Department which is part of the sisters house and the TMD project in Hawassa, Bushulo, Ethiopia. Our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality facilities that will meet and serve the needs of the community. Watch the video to see the progress and learn more about this exciting project.
After Rostwa Engineers having active Construction and Project planning for Adilang Vocational Training Institute Agago for a period of 2 years and more, Administration thought of how best to give back to the Institute since it’s an annual norm to have at least one corporate social responsibility activity hence the birth of Careers day. The reasons behind the day was for the students to have first-hand information from people already actively engaged in the field of the various courses they are pursuing.
Group photo during the Rostwa CSR at the AVTI
Consultants were availed for every course being pursued at Institute that is Agriculture, Tailoring and garment design, Building and concrete practices and hair dressing. Mr. Ocen William was the agricultural consultant ( Director Nen anyim nursery Gulu), Mrs. Aber Judith Oneka as a tailoring consultant (Director Honeka fashions Gulu), Mrs. Acen Margaret as Hair dressing consultant (director Smart way saloon Gulu) and Eng. Obwor Emmanuel as Building and concrete practices consultant (Managing Director Rostwa Engineers Ltd Entebbe).
Agricultural, tailoring and hair dressing consultants discussed about the history of business( how it started, sources of capital and how it expanded), Business control and monitoring, challenges and solutions and Do’s and Don’ts of the businesses. The Building consultant shared with students his personal life story on how he became an Engineer and history of Rostwa Engineers limited. There were different sessions of questions and answers in categories all these information shared we are optimistic about it being value addition to the students in line with various causes pursued.
Rostwa community social responsibility at AVTI 2024
Rostwa community social responsibility at AVTI 2024
Rostwa community social responsibility at AVTI 2024
Rostwa community social responsibility at AVTI 2024
Rostwa community social responsibility at AVTI 2024
Rostwa community social responsibility at AVTI 2024
Rostwa community social responsibility at AVTI 2024
At Rostwa Engineers Ltd., we recently gathered for a momentous company retreat and anniversary celebration, marking our 15th year of “Engineering a Legacy.” This event was a perfect blend of reflection, strategic planning, and celebration, held in the scenic Fort Portal, Western Uganda.
Reflecting on Our Journey
Toro Kingdom Palace
The retreat provided us with a valuable opportunity to look back on our achievements and milestones. From pioneering engineering solutions to building lasting relationships with our clients, we have grown and evolved in ways we could have only imagined when we started 15 years ago. This growth is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of our entire team.
Engineering a Legacy: Strategic Planning for Year 15: The highlight of our retreat was our strategic planning sessions, where each department collaborated to set clear, ambitious goals for the upcoming year. This year, under the theme “Engineering a Legacy,” the Jupita team revised and polished our company philosophy, including our mission, vision, and core values. Each department then developed their own mission for Rostwa Year 15, encapsulated in their Wildly Important Goals (WIGs) and detailed action plans (Leads).
Departmental Missions and Action Plans: Each department at Rostwa Engineers Ltd. held its own retreat session to develop a mission and action plan for Year 15. Here are the highlights from each department’s session:
Administration Department: Led by Ms. Atim Juliet, the Administration team focused on enhancing internal communication and streamlining administrative processes to support overall company efficiency.
Finance Department: Under the leadership of Mrs. Berna Otto, the Finance team is dedicated to improving financial transparency and optimizing budget allocation.
Technical Team: Under the leadership of Eng. Emmanuel Obwor, the Technical team is dedicated to driving innovation through external collaboration, maximizing available engineering solutions, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
A Celebration to Remember: In addition to our strategic sessions, we celebrated our 15th anniversary with team-building activities and a memorable Rostwa dinner, where we enjoyed a special cake-cutting ceremony to mark our 15 years of excellence. Our celebration took place at Kalitusi Lodges in Fort Portal City, providing a beautiful and inspiring setting for our events. We also explored the rich tourism sites of the western belt, including visits to the Semuliki Hot Springs, Kyaninga Lodges, Fort Portal City, the Toro Kingdom Palace, Kazinga Channel, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the Equator. These experiences not only strengthened our team bonds but also allowed us to appreciate the beauty and culture of Uganda.
Looking Ahead
As we embark on our 15th year, we are more committed than ever to living up to our theme, “Engineering a Legacy.” With a clear strategic plan and a motivated team, we are poised to achieve new heights and continue delivering unparalleled engineering solutions to our clients.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of our journey so far. Here’s to another year of Engineering A Legacy at Rostwa Engineers Ltd.
We are pleased to announce the successful handover of several key structures at Adilang Vocational Training Institute (AVTI) to the school administration. This signifies the completion of a significant part of a phase of our ongoing partnership with the institution.
Handover Details:
Site Inspection at AVTI may 2024
Girls’ Dormitory: The newly constructed dormitory has 8 rooms, designed to meet the highest standards of safety and student well-being.
Dongo Paco Office: A dedicated office space has been completed for the Dongo Paco Foundation Ltd, ensuring smooth operations and efficient management.
Store: The new storage facility provides ample and secure storage space for essential school supplies and equipment.
Project Inspection:
In addition to the handover, our team conducted a comprehensive site inspection of the remaining school projects currently underway. This inspecti1on allows for proactive identification of any potential issues and ensures adherence to the project timeline and quality standards.
We are committed to delivering exceptional results for our clients. The successful handover of these structures reflects our dedication to quality construction, efficient project management, and on-time completion. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with AVTI and contributing to the continued development of their facilities.
The story of Rostwa Engineers isn’t your typical tale of corporate giants. Ours began in a single room, not in a gleaming high-rise, but in Kitgum Town, Uganda, back in December 2008. Fueled by ambition and a shared vision, two friends, Eng. Obwor Emmanuel and Mwaka Isaac Phillip, dreamt of using their engineering expertise to make a real difference.
From St. Joseph’s Hospital to Rostwa Engineers Limited:
Their journey began at St. Joseph’s Hospital. As their contracts there neared completion, the spark of entrepreneurship ignited. Rostwa (derived from Roads, Structures, Water) was born – a name symbolizing the foundation they envisioned for Uganda’s future.
A Decade of Growth and Milestones (2009-2019):
The early years were a testament to hard work and resilience. Under the leadership of Mr. Onen John Norbert from 2009 to 2016, Rostwa steadily grew its portfolio. In 2017, with Eng. Obwor taking the helm, the company relocated its headquarters to Entebbe, laying the groundwork for further expansion.
The year 2019 marked a significant milestone – a decade of successful projects and a team brimming with pride. As they celebrated at their Entebbe offices, a new vision emerged – the dream of a permanent home for Rostwa.
Building the Future, Brick by Brick (2019-2024):
Dreams have a way of turning into reality. In 2022, Rostwa Engineers proudly opened its main offices in Mpala, Entebbe. This new space symbolizes not just growth, but a commitment to the future.
15 Years and Beyond: The Legacy Continues
From a single room in Kitgum to a thriving engineering firm, Rostwa’s journey is a testament to the power of friendship, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Today, as we celebrate 15 years, we look back with immense pride at the schools, hospitals, and vital infrastructure projects that stand as testaments to our work.
But our story isn’t over. We are filled with excitement as we look towards the next chapter. With a commitment to sustainable practices, innovative solutions, and a passion for building a brighter East Africa, Rostwa Engineers is poised to make a lasting impact for years to come.
As we stand on the cusp of a new year, it’s an opportune moment for the members of our esteemed engineering community to pause and reflect on the strides we’ve made throughout 2023. Beyond the realm of technical innovations and project accomplishments, our personal journeys within the professional landscape deserve acknowledgment and contemplation.
Acknowledgement: Let’s take a moment to acknowledge the collective wins we’ve experienced within our professional and personal spheres. From successful project completions to earning certifications that elevate our expertise, each achievement contributes to the tapestry of our shared success.
Navigating Challenges– In the dynamic field of engineering and of course personal life, challenges are not roadblocks but rather opportunities for growth. Reflect on instances where adaptability, problem-solving, and leadership skills were put to the test. It’s in these moments that true resilience emerges.
Learning Every Day–Our commitment to excellence in engineering and personal aspects of life necessitates a dedication to continuous learning. Consider the new skills you’ve acquired, the courses you’ve engaged with, and the knowledge you’ve sought to remain at the forefront of our ever-evolving industry and the personal life you’re living.
Balancing Work and Personal Well-being: As we delve into our reflections, let’s not forget the importance of maintaining equilibrium between our professional pursuits and personal well-being. Strategies for a healthy work-life balance, stress management, and overall well-being should be woven into the narrative of our professional narratives.
Strategic Vision for the New Year: Now, let’s cast our sight towards the horizon of 2024. It’s time to set intentions and goals that align with our professional and personal aspirations. Consider formulating S.M.A.R.T. goals — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — that will propel your career and personal life forward.
Being Positive and Open to Change – In the face of challenges and opportunities alike, let’s collectively embrace a growth mindset. The professional and personal landscapes are ever evolving, and the willingness to learn from challenges, seek feedback, and continuously adapt positions us for sustained success. Its literally a fulltime job to have a positive mindset.
Cultivating Professional Networks – Recognize the strength in our collective connections. Consider expanding your professional network, engaging with peers, and participating in industry events. Our collaborative efforts fuel innovation and mutual advancement.
Conclusion: As we bid farewell to 2023, let the insights gained from this reflection guide your path toward a future marked by both professional excellence and personal fulfillment. The journey is ongoing, and each step forward is a testament to our collective commitment to professional and personal excellence.
We would like to hear from you our esteemed community members, to share your reflections, goals, and strategies for the upcoming year. We believe in the exchange of insights; we strengthen not only our individual paths but also the fabric of our collaborative professional community.
Here’s to a new year filled with growth, achievements, and collective success.
