In a landmark infrastructure development, the Government of Uganda has officially launched the construction of the Kyenjojo (Kihura)–Bwizi–Rwamwanja–Kahunge 68km road, the 38km Mpara–Bwizi road, and 20km of town roads in Kihura and Kahunge towns.
The project was commissioned on Friday by Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who represented H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at the event held at Bwizi Seed Secondary School football grounds in Bwizi Sub County, Kamwenge District.
The Prime Minister hailed the project as a critical step in improving transport infrastructure under the National Development Plan III, specifically the Integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services Program.
“This project is a testimony of the government’s commitment to improving connectivity, reducing freight costs, and enhancing access to remote regions,” Rt. Hon. Nabbanja said. “It will not only spur economic activity but also uplift the welfare of thousands of Ugandans and refugees who rely on this corridor for their daily needs. “She stated
The construction contract has been awarded to M/s The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.), a reputable international construction firm.
The road upgrade will bring the project roads to Class II Bituminous Standard, featuring 7.0-meter-wide carriageways and 1.5 to 2.0-meter-wide shoulders. In key trading centers, the roads will include dual carriageways, parking lanes, and pedestrian walkways to enhance safety and urban access.
Financing for the project was secured through a partnership between the Government of Uganda and the Islamic Development Bank, with the contract officially signed on December 18, 2024.
“This partnership with the Islamic Development Bank underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in infrastructure development,” Prime Minister Nabbanja added. “We are committed to ensuring value for money and timely completion of this transformative project.”
The road project is of strategic importance as it lies near Kibaale National Park, a major eco-tourism site that draws approximately 8% of all tourists visiting Uganda’s national parks. Once completed, the improved road network is expected to boost tourism, open up markets, and increase accessibility to social services.
Additionally, the project directly impacts the Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, which hosts over 70,000 refugees across 12 zones in Kamwenge District.
“These roads will ease the delivery of humanitarian aid, food, and essential supplies to the refugee communities, enhancing service delivery and mobility,” said Frank Tumwebze, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries,
Local leaders and residents welcomed the project, describing it as a long-awaited lifeline for the region.
Joseph Karungi, the Kamwenge District Chairperson, expressed optimism: “This road will transform livelihoods in Kamwenge. We thank the government for fulfilling this promise. Better roads mean better lives.”
Construction works are expected to commence immediately, with a strong emphasis on quality, environmental sustainability, and community engagement throughout the implementation phase.