Local leaders and road users in Mityana District have voiced concern over the deteriorating condition of the Mityana–Mubende highway, warning that its worsening state poses a serious threat to transport, business, and road safety in the central region.
Once a vital trade route connecting major towns, the highway is now riddled with deep potholes and eroded sections, forcing vehicles to navigate dangerously slow and uneven terrain.
Commuters and traders say the poor state of the road has increased transport costs and disrupted commerce across several communities.
“Transport costs have doubled because drivers spend more on fuel and repairs,” said a taxi driver plying the route. “Some sections are almost impassable, especially when it rains.”
Business owners along the highway have also expressed frustration, saying the poor road network has driven away customers and suppliers.
“Our profits have dropped drastically. Trucks carrying goods delay for hours, and sometimes they get stuck,” said a shopkeeper in Kyakatebe town centre.
Wotonava Fred, the Central Division Mayor of Mityana Municipality, appealed to the Ministry of Works and Transport to urgently resume and complete the stalled road works, particularly in areas where construction was halted months ago.
“The delay has crippled transport and local trade. Government needs to act quickly to restore normalcy,” he said.
Responding to the public outcry, State Minister for Transport Fred Byamukama recently acknowledged the concerns and urged road users to remain patient, assuring them that government is aware of the problem and plans are underway to address it.
“We understand the frustration of the people using this road,” Byamukama said. “Funds have delayed, but once released, work will resume and the Mityana–Mubende road will be restored to a better condition.”
Residents, however, warn that continued neglect could increase the risk of accidents and further cripple local businesses that depend on reliable transport infrastructure.
