After months of delays and frustration, there is finally some good news for residents and road users in Mpondwe, Kasese District.
In December 2023, a major disruption occurred when scrap dealers stole the culverts from this bridge, causing it to sink into the Mpondwe River.
As a result, traffic was severely impacted, with heavy trucks unable to cross for several days.
Now, construction on the long-awaited Mpondwe Bridge now stands at 80 percent complete, raising hopes that traffic congestion and travel delays will soon be a thing of the past.
According to works inspector Antony Katembesa, “The bridge project is progressing well. We are currently at about 80 percent completion, and the remaining works are now more of finishing touches.”
The project, initially expected to be completed by December last year, faced setbacks due to poor weather conditions and the long distance to material supply sites. These factors forced a three-month extension in the project timeline.
“Weather disruptions and hauling construction materials from far-off suppliers slowed us down,” explained site engineer, Moris Twiine.
In the meantime, commuters have had to rely on a narrow diversion, a route many describe as “treacherous,” especially during the rainy season. This temporary path has caused daily traffic jams and transportation delays.
“When it rains, the diversion becomes muddy and slippery. Sometimes trucks get stuck, and that holds up everyone,” said road user Hamis Moze.
The Mpondwe Bridge project is more than just a local convenience it is expected to transform daily travel in this busy border town, boost cross-border trade, and improve connectivity across the Rwenzori region.
“This bridge will ease movement for traders and farmers, making Mpondwe a better hub for business,” noted Enos Mumbere, Assistant Town Clerk of Mpondwe-Lhubiriha Town Council.
Site engineer Twiine assured residents that, “Within a month or two, the bridge will be ready to accommodate traffic.”