In a significant boost to trade, transportation, and community access, the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Engineers Brigade has completed a new bridge connecting Nyamizi Cell in Kihanda Sub-county to Kakoni LC1 in Nyarugunda Parish, Kanungu District.
Built at a cost of Shs 50 million, the bridge is part of 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations community-support initiatives. For years, residents struggled to transport agricultural produce such as coffee, bananas, and livestock, and faced difficulties accessing schools, health facilities, and other services.
Maj. Albert Mukama, head of the UPDF Engineers team in Kigezi, said the bridge was constructed using locally available timber and stones, following a cost-effective and durable engineering approach.
He assured that despite its simplicity, the structure meets military engineering standards, capable of supporting heavy vehicles.
“Residents previously struggled to cross the hilly terrain, especially during the rainy season. This bridge addresses those challenges and is expected to serve the community for at least 20 years if properly maintained,” Mukama said.
Local leaders welcomed the development. Area Chairperson Kintu Henry thanked the UPDF for addressing a long-standing safety concern, noting the previous crossing was dangerous, particularly for school children.
Brig. Gen. Micheal Kibuye, UPDF Director of Civil-Military Cooperation, praised the Engineers Brigade for completing the project in under a month, emphasizing that it is part of several civil-military initiatives in the Kigezi region under the Tarehe Sita outreach program.
The bridge is scheduled for official handover to the community on January 6, 2026.