A transformation is steadily unfolding on the streets of Kampala as the Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP) pushes toward completion, delivering upgraded roads, improved drainage and modern urban infrastructure. But even as progress reaches advanced levels, delays and uneven performance across contractors continue to shape the pace of delivery.
With a civil works budget of $246.2 million, the project set out to construct 69.7 kilometres of roads, improve 22 traffic junctions, and build 134 kilometres of non-motorised transport (NMT) facilities such as walkways and cycling lanes.
Other features include the installation of 1,600 energy-efficient streetlights, construction of 30 public toilets, development of six markets targeting women vendors, and planting of 10,000 trees to enhance the city’s environment.
As of March 31, 2026, overall physical progress stood at 77.66 percent, with 66.4 kilometres already paved with final asphalt, representing more than 70 percent of the total road network under the project.
The project was divided into five lots handled by different international contractors, and performance has varied.
Lot 1, handled by China State Construction Engineering Corporation, has surpassed its targets, achieving over 100 percent physical progress. About 15 kilometres of road under this lot are already complete.
However, Lot 2, managed by Zhejiang Communications Construction Group, is lagging behind. Despite nearly 90 percent of time elapsed, physical progress stands at just 43.97 percent.
The lot is now expected to be completed by August 2026, later than originally planned.
Lot 3, implemented by China Railway 18th Bureau Group, shows moderate but pressured progress. The works, which commenced on April 18, 2023, were initially expected to be completed by October 2025 but have since been revised to June 20, 2026.
KCCA data indicates that the lot has achieved 70.91 percent physical progress against a planned 89.16 percent, with 93 percent of project time already elapsed. Financial progress stands at 66.81 percent (or 72.29 percent inclusive of advance payments).
Other sections show mixed progress, with Lot 4 at 54.64 percent and Lot 5 at 81.66 percent. Across most lots, however, quality has been rated satisfactory, with no major concerns raised so far.
Several critical structures are already visible, including a new bridge near the MUBS area and an underpass along Queensway, both expected to significantly ease traffic flow in busy corridors.
Despite the progress, land acquisition remains a sticking point in some areas. While Lot 1 and Lot 2 have nearly achieved full right-of-way acquisition, Lot 4 and Lot 5 lag behind at 89 percent and 83.5 percent, respectively.
Compensation under the project has covered thousands of project-affected persons, but delays in some cases have slowed construction.
In addition to physical works, the project includes a $14.95 million project management component, covering supervision, technical audits and the development of urban design guidelines.
Consultancies are also working on plans for a future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system aimed at easing Kampala’s chronic congestion.
As Kampala grapples with rapid urbanisation, the KCRRP represents a critical step toward modern infrastructure. Yet, the mixed pace of implementation highlights the challenges of delivering large-scale public works in a growing city.
For now, residents are witnessing both the promise and the disruption that comes with transformation.
The Deputy Executive Director of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Benon Kigenyi while updating the public on the progress of ongoingRoad works , appreciated the World Bank for its continued support in funding road construction and rehabilitation projects in Kampala, saying the partnership has greatly improved infrastructure in the city.
Kigenyi notted that the projects have helped reduce flooding and improve mobility despite challenges such as potholes in some areas.
He cited several roads that were initially delayed but are now part of the ongoing works, including Salama Road, Mpererwe, Kiti, Namuwongo, and Kiteezi among others.
He added that all newly constructed roads are being fitted with street lighting as part of efforts to improve safety and reduce crime at night.
“All roads under construction will have street lights installed, and we are also working with communities to ensure they are protected from theft and vandalism,” Kigenyi said.
Kigenyi further revealed that road construction in Kampala is currently at about 75% completion, an improvement compared to 40% last year.
He, however, highlighted several challenges affecting the works, including delays caused by utility relocation such as electricity poles, water pipes, and telecom lines, as well as community interference along construction routes.
“Relocation of utilities slows down our work and increases costs, but we continue to work closely with relevant agencies to resolve these issues,” he explained.
Kigenyi also raised concern over theft of construction materials such as streetlights, wires, and other equipment, saying the vice contributes to poor lighting and insecurity in the city.
“Vandalism and theft of materials remain a big challenge. These acts are one of the reasons parts of the city remain dark,” he said.
The Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, welcomed the progress of the project and expressed optimism that improved road infrastructure will help eliminate darkness in the city.
She urged KCCA to avoid corruption and ensure transparency in all road construction projects
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“We must ensure that public funds are used properly. Contractors should work efficiently so that we avoid unnecessary additional costs,” Kabanda said.
She also called on contractors to speed up works so that citizens can benefit from improved roads without delays
