Museveni commissions first phase of Kampala flyover project

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Standing under the towering structure of the newly constructed Clock Tower Flyover, President Yoweri Museveni lauded Uganda’s growing partnership with Japan as he officially commissioned the first phase of the Kampala Flyover Project.

The ambitious approximately sh300b infrastructure project, funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is expected to ease congestion in Kampala’s central business district while modernizing the city’s transport network.

President Museveni arriving at the venue. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

President Yoweri Museveni welcomed by government officials and Japanese delegation. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

President Yoweri Museveni cuts the ribbon at the commissioning of the Kampala Flyover project, first phase.(Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

“Africa has been a very good market for Japan, and when I went to Japan, I told them that they should come and reciprocate our favours in Uganda. I am very happy that the Japanese are doing so through different projects,” Museveni remarked.

He emphasized the need for Japanese investors to expand their role beyond infrastructure development and invest in Uganda’s manufacturing sector.

“I also told them to come and manufacture in Uganda, sell in the Ugandan market, and also export. The Chinese need to do some work to invest in manufacturing. We are happy with Japan,” he added.

A new era for Kampala’s infrastructure

Kampala Flyover project. (PPU)

Japanese Ambassador to Uganda, Sasayama Takuya, hailed the strong cooperation between Japan and Uganda, highlighting the longstanding partnership in infrastructure development, vocational training, and agriculture.

Kampala Flyover project. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

Kampala Flyover project. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

“JICA and the Embassy have a long history of supporting Uganda. We have collaborated on vocational training, roads, and major infrastructure such as the Jinja Bridge. We shall soon sign the agreement for the new Karuma Bridge,” he said.

The ambassador further revealed that Japan is supporting the installation of a state-of-the-art traffic light control centre, set to be operational between July and August. “This flyover will enhance the living standards of Kampala residents. However, with improved roads, we must be mindful of speed. We urge all Ugandans to abide by traffic rules,” he cautioned.

Takuya also noted that Japan’s support has helped create over 700,000 jobs in Uganda in the last six years and has trained more than 110 engineers by sharing expertise in road construction and maintenance. He expressed Japan’s commitment to further assisting Uganda’s infrastructure ambitions.

Government leaders applaud the project

President Museveni (c) posing for a group picture with government officials present and the Japanese ambassador. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja described the commissioning of the project as a major milestone in improving road safety and boosting business in the capital.

“Every part of Kampala is under construction. Our city is like a massive construction site. But I believe that once these projects are completed, Kampala will be among the best cities in the world,” Nabbanja said.

Hajjati Minsa Kabanda, the Minister for Kampala City and Metropolitan Affairs, emphasized the project’s role in modernizing the city’s infrastructure and improving the quality of life for road users.

“This is just the beginning. The government is committed to creating a road network that enhances the livelihoods of Ugandans. Take pride in this progress—this flyover is yours,” she urged.

Kabanda also called for an increased budget for road maintenance, stressing that a well-maintained road network is crucial for sustainable urban development.

(Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

(Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

Safety and efficiency in urban transport

Minister of State for Works and Transport, Musa Francis Ecweru, who represented Works Minister, Gen. Katumba Wamala, highlighted the anticipated impact of the project on Kampala’s traffic congestion.

“This project will significantly improve traffic flow in the Kampala metropolitan area and provide safer passages for pedestrians. It will ease vehicle movement and ensure that pedestrians no longer have to weave through roads dangerously,” he stated.

Ecweru also noted that bodabodas would not be allowed to pass through areas only designated for vehicles for safety reasons.

He added that local contractors played a crucial role in supplying materials such as cement and steel, further contributing to Uganda’s construction industry.

“The local contractors, including Cementers, Roko, Abubaker, and Tororo Cement, have gained valuable experience through this project. We are also planning for a new Karuma Bridge, which will not last between 10 to 20 years to since it was just repaired. We may sign the agreement as soon as next month,” he disclosed.

(Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

Challenges and call for responsible citizenship

Despite the successful completion of the first phase, authorities have raised concerns over vandalism and reckless road use. Reports indicate that manhole ladder steps have been stolen, while some pedestrian walkways are being occupied by vendors.

President Museveni warned against indiscipline and improper waste disposal, linking it to urban flooding and health hazards.

“You must observe discipline. Do not litter. Littering is bad; it blocks water channels and leads to flooding. Those littering should pay fines. Now that we have cameras, police should work with KCCA to catch the culprits and make them pay. Littering brings mosquitoes and causes malaria,” he warned.

Museveni also advised citizens to separate waste into biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials to promote responsible waste management.

Government leaders said the commissioning of the first phase of the Kampala Flyover Project marks a significant step toward transforming Kampala into a modern city with an efficient transport system. 

Nabbanja said the government, in partnership with Japan, remains committed to further infrastructural development, with future plans including expanded road networks, upgraded drainage systems, and smart traffic management solutions.

The Kampala Flyover Project, which commenced in 2019, features several key components, including the Clock Tower Flyover, the Shoprite Pedestrian Bridge, the Nsambya Underpass, and multiple widened roads.

Additional features include improved drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, water fountains, and five signalized junctions aimed at easing traffic flow.

(Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

(Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

(Credit: Miriam Namutebi)