Govt clears sh35.7b World Bank funding for Mukono road construction

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Residents of Mukono district now have reason to celebrate as the government has approved funding of sh35b for infrastructure development in the area.

This initiative will involve the construction of 18 kilometres of roads and a market, significantly improving connectivity, mobility, and the economic prospects of the district.

The project will be carried out by the China Railway 5 Engineering Group, which signed a contract with the Mukono District Local Government last Friday to begin work on an initial 7.8 kilometres of road connecting Ntenjeru to Bule landing site in Mukono District.

This road, which links the sub-counties of Ntenjeru and Mpata, has been in poor condition for years, leading to repeated complaints from residents.

The project will include road tarmacking, improved drainage systems, installation of street lights, and pedestrian walkways.

These developments are part of the World Bank-funded Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP).

Mukono District Chairperson, Peter Bakaluba-Mukasa (right), during the signing ceremony. The project will be carried out by the China Railway 5 Engineering Group, which signed a contract with the Mukono District Local Government last Friday to begin work on an initial 7.8 kilometers of road connecting Ntenjeru to Bule landing site in Mukono District. (Courtesy)

During the signing ceremony at Mukono District headquarters on Friday, Mukono District Chairperson Peter Bakaluba-Mukasa expressed gratitude, stating that the new road addresses long-standing demands from the community.

"What once felt like a distant dream is now a reality. This is a moment for celebration and a significant achievement for our district. I thank the government of Uganda for its unwavering support, especially through the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area program," he said.

He emphasised the project's economic importance, noting that the improved road will enable farmers to transport their produce more efficiently to markets in Ggaba and Mukono. "This is a major step in supporting our local economy," Bakaluba added.

However, he also called on the contractors to act responsibly within the community, warning against issues such as family breakdowns, unwanted pregnancies, or an increase in HIV infections resulting from irresponsible behaviour by construction workers.

Mukono Chief Administrative Officer, Elizabeth Namanda, highlighted some unresolved land issues, particularly in areas like Nakifuma, where some residents have refused to sign consent forms. This has caused delays in local government works, but she noted that after consulting with the Solicitor General, these issues have now been addressed.

"I want to congratulate and thank Mukono leadership and the Minister of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs (Hajjat Minsa Kabanda) for their invaluable support during this period," she said.

Monica Edemachu, Undersecretary at the Ministry for Kampala, urged the contractor to take necessary precautions before beginning work, emphasising thorough inspections of machinery to prevent accidents similar to those previously experienced in Mukono Municipality.

Mukono District Residential Representative (RDC), Fatuma Ndisaba, stated that the new road meets long-standing community demands. "This road has been a major concern for our people. With this investment, we are finally addressing a significant infrastructure gap that has hindered trade and mobility," Ndisaba remarked.

About the GKMA-UDP

The GKMA-UDP is a government of Uganda initiative aimed at enhancing urban mobility, environmental conditions, local economic development, and coordination in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA). Supported by the World Bank and Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the program is implemented by nine entities, including Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the district local governments of Wakiso, Mukono, and Mpigi, and the respective municipal local governments of Kira, Nansana, Makindye-Ssabagabo, Mukono, and Entebbe.

These GKMA entities are responsible for planning, budgeting, implementing, and reporting on the program, ensuring sustainable public procurement principles while upholding environmental and social safeguards.