The Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, has concluded an inspection of key road infrastructure projects in the Albertine and West Nile sub-regions, where he assessed progress, challenges and the impact of the projects on communities along the various road corridors.
The inspection covered the upgrading of Masindi–Biiso (47km), rehabilitation of Karuma–Olwiyo (43.5km), rehabilitation of Alwii–Nebbi (33km), including town roads, rehabilitation of Nebbi–Arua (76km), upgrading of Koboko–Yumbe–Moyo Road and upgrading of Yumbe–Ure Road. The projects are part of Government’s continued investment in road infrastructure to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, reduce transport costs and strengthen links between communities and regional markets.
During the inspection, Hon. Byamukama directed that Project Affected Persons (PAPs) who are due compensation should be paid in accordance with the established processes, noting that timely resolution of compensation matters is critical to ensuring smooth implementation of road projects.
The Minister also addressed concerns regarding access to clean water by communities affected by road construction. He directed that affected communities should be provided with reliable access to clean and safe water, rather than automatically relying on boreholes where alternative solutions may better serve the communities.
The Minister also inspected Ora Bridge, an ageing bridge that carries significant traffic, including heavy trucks. Following the assessment of its condition, measures are being put in place to strengthen its structural safety, protect road users and manage the risks associated with increasing traffic and heavy vehicle loading, while the Ministry continues to pursue appropriate long-term interventions to ensure the bridge remains safe and functional.
Hon. Byamukama further encouraged residents with small pieces of land along the road corridors to reconsider extensive sugarcane cultivation and invest in alternative enterprises that can generate better returns from limited land. He cited tomatoes, cabbages, coffee and goat rearing, among other income-generating activities, as potential alternatives.
Hon. Byamukama emphasized that infrastructure development must go hand in hand with the protection of road users, the safety of communities and improvement of livelihoods along the road corridors.
The Ministry will continue monitoring the implementation of the projects and engaging contractors, engineers, local leaders and affected communities to address emerging challenges and ensure that Government’s investments deliver safe, durable and value-for-money infrastructure.