Improved roads open up Mukono economy, ease traffic
For years, sections of Mukono’s road network were in poor condition, becoming difficult to use during rainy seasons due to mud, while dust during dry periods affected transport and business activities.
The upgrading of several key roads within the municipality has improved access to markets, schools, residential areas and government offices. Residents said the improved road network has significantly eased movement within the town.
MUKONO - Mukono Municipality residents and business operators say they are experiencing improved mobility and increased economic activity following the tarmacking of some roads.
The upgrading of several key roads within the municipality has improved access to markets, schools, residential areas and government offices. Residents said the improved road network has significantly eased movement within the town.
For years, sections of Mukono’s road network were in poor condition, becoming difficult to use during rainy seasons due to mud, while dust during dry periods affected transport and business activities.
However, while campaigning President Yoweri Museveni pledged to fast-track alternative road networks around Kampala to ease traffic congestion.
Addressing a massive campaign rally at St Joseph’s Secondary School, Naggalama Grounds in Mukono early January, President Museveni said heavy traffic from Mukono, Wakiso and other neighbouring districts had made it necessary for government to prioritise outer ring roads and inter-district connectors that allow vehicles to bypass Kampala altogether.
“We need roads that allow vehicles to avoid Kampala city. Because of the heavy traffic, we want most cars to pass outside the city instead of all traffic being forced to go through Kampala,” Museveni said.
Several months after the rally, many roads have been upgraded with municipality residents saying the upgraded roads have improved daily travel for motorists, pedestrians and public transport operators. Business operators say the improved infrastructure has contributed to increased customer traffic and longer operating hours.
“Customers can now access our shops more easily, even in the evening. Business has improved compared to before,” he said.
Boda-boda operators also reported improved movement and increased activity.
“Movement is now much easier, and people are travelling at different hours of the day. This has helped many of us in our work,” said commercial motorcyclist Mohamed Nkugwa.
The sh69b road overhaul in Mukono Municipality, encompassing Kame-Nabuti to Katosi, Nasuuti-Ntawo, and Bajjo has greatly improved travel reliability.
During the construction period, the project provided temporary employment opportunities for residents and supported small-scale business activities around the work sites.
The sh69b road overhaul in Mukono Municipality, encompassing Kame-Nabuti to Katosi, Nasuuti-Ntawo, and Bajjo has greatly improved travel reliability.
Local leaders welcomed the completion of the project, saying the improved infrastructure will support trade, mobility and service delivery in the municipality. They also appreciated the contractor for delivering the project on schedule and to all stakeholders who contributed to its successful implementation.
Mukono district LC5 chairperson Francis Mukoome Lukooya said improved infrastructure remains key to economic growth, trade expansion and household income generation.
Former Mukono municipality mayor Johnson Muyanja Ssenyonga said the upgraded roads address long-standing transport challenges that had affected the town for years.
Leaders also commended the timely completion of the project, noting that residents will now benefit from improved infrastructure and reduced transport challenges.
Woman MP for Mukono Municipality Betty Nambooze called for continued investment in infrastructure development to further support local livelihoods and economic growth.
Following the official handover of the project, attention has now shifted to the maintenance and protection of the upgraded roads and drainage systems.
Authorities have urged residents and road users to take responsibility in safeguarding the infrastructure to ensure its sustainability.
The completed project is expected to further improve connectivity, facilitate trade and support long-term development in Mukono Municipality. For many residents, the upgraded roads mark an important step in the town’s urban transformation and improved accessibility.