Kitagwenda Leaders Urge Urgent Action on Tarmacking Kamwenge-Rubirizi Road
This road is vital for the people of Kitagwenda and the surrounding districts. We need immediate action to make it a priority
Authorities in Kitagwenda District are calling for immediate action to tarmac the Kitagwenda-Kamwenge-Rubirizi road, a crucial 100-kilometer route that connects the region.
The road, which passes through Mahyoro Town Council, has deteriorated significantly over the years, posing a risk to residents and hampering transport between Kitagwenda and Rubirizi districts.
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The push to tarmac this key national road has gained momentum, with local leaders referencing a promise made by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during his 2016 campaign.
However, despite this commitment, the road was omitted from the National Development Plan (NDP) III, frustrating local communities.
James Baguma Mugaiga, the Kitagwenda District Speaker, emphasised the need for the President’s pledge to be fulfilled.
“This road is vital for the people of Kitagwenda and the surrounding districts. We need immediate action to make it a priority,” he said.
District Chairperson Ismael Mushemeza highlighted the ongoing efforts by district leaders to bring attention to the issue. “We have repeatedly followed up on this road, but our concerns continue to be overlooked,” he stated.
The deteriorating condition of the road has become a serious safety concern. Mahyoro Sub-County Chairperson Juma Kaheru expressed alarm over accidents in hazardous spots, particularly in Ntabahara, where more than ten lives have been lost in recent years. “The road has become a death trap. We urgently need repairs to prevent further loss of life and improve transportation,” Kaheru stressed.
Some residents blame their Members of Parliament for not lobbying effectively, leading to the road’s omission from the NDP III. However, Kitagwenda County Member of Parliament Hon. Nulu Byamukama dismissed these claims, assuring constituents that he has consistently raised the issue in parliament. “I’ve presented this matter multiple times. I am hopeful that the road will soon be prioritised,” Byamukama assured.
State Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Edward Katumba Wamala, also expressed optimism, revealing that the road has been included in the upcoming NDP for prioritisation.
“We recognise the importance of this road. It will be among the roads we prioritise in the coming NDP,” Katumba Wamala said in an interview with Nile Post.
Local leaders are optimistic that this renewed commitment will lead to the long-awaited transformation of the Kitagwenda-Kamwenge-Rubirizi road, improving safety, boosting economic opportunities, and enhancing access for local communities.
