Alupo launches major infrastructure overhaul for Kampala and surrounding areas
Retired army officer and Vice President Jessica Alupo has officially launched a comprehensive plan to build roads, markets, and drainage systems across Kampala and its neighbouring districts.
The initiative, known as the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Development Program, is set to be completed in one and a half years, with funding from the World Bank and other development partners.
In a message delivered on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni, the president stressed the urgency of addressing the deteriorating state of Kampala’s roads, which he described as alarming and in need of immediate intervention.
The launch ceremony took place in Kira Municipality, Wakiso District, where Vice President Major Jessica Alupo served as the guest of honor.
In his message, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni highlighted that this project will restore Kampala and its surrounding areas to prominence. He further explained that since 1991, Kampala has faced 153 major road-related issues, which have hampered the city’s growth.
Approved by the cabinet in 2013, the project aims to improve infrastructure, create jobs, and enhance transportation in Kampala and the surrounding districts. The plan encompasses areas such as Kampala, Mukono, Wakiso, and Mpigi, as well as municipalities including Nansana, Entebbe, Kira, and Mukono.
The construction efforts, which will span roads, markets, and drainage systems in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan area, are expected to take about a year and a half.
Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda noted that most of the funding will come from the World Bank, France, other international donors, and the Ugandan government.
In Kampala, 72.06 km of roads and four markets will be developed. In Mukono District, 59.63 km of roads, two markets, and one abattoir will be constructed. Makindye Ssabagabo will receive 56.6 km of roads, one market, and one abattoir.
Wakiso District will benefit from 96.7 km of roads and three markets, while Mukono Municipality will get 45.1 km of roads and two markets. Nansana Municipality is set to receive 48 km of roads, one market, and an artisan training center.
Mpigi District will have 42.26 km of roads and two markets, while Entebbe Municipality will see 20.5 km of roads and two markets developed.
Kira Municipality will benefit from 46 km of roads and two markets. Kabanda emphasised that, in this round of development, there will be no compensation for individuals, as one of the conditions for the allocated funds is to avoid such expenses.
Last year, public frustration over Kampala's pothole-ridden roads reached social media, leading to the Ugandan People's Defense Force (UPDF) being contracted to repair some of the worst-affected areas.
