Tourism stakeholders in the Kigezi region have expressed concern over the suspension of construction works on the 8.4-kilometre Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi tourism road, warning that the delay could disrupt tourism activities in one of Uganda’s key destinations.
The road project, which was commissioned on June 13, 2025, by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni, was expected to improve access to Lake Bunyonyi, a major tourism attraction in southwestern Uganda.
The project is part of a wider Shs112 billion infrastructure development programme that also includes the Kisoro–Mgahinga road. It is funded mainly by the African Development Bank in partnership with the Government of Uganda, with Samcrete Egypt Engineers and Contractors executing the works.
Tourism operators say construction has stalled for several weeks, raising fears that the condition of the road could worsen further, especially with the onset of heavy rains.
Wyclif Rushaju, Director of Milele Lodge Bunyonyi, said the absence of the contractor on site has become a major concern for businesses dependent on tourism.
“The government should issue an official statement condemning contractors who abandon projects before completion,” Rushaju said.
He noted that sections of the road have been left in poor condition, with soil and sand scattered along the route, making movement increasingly difficult.
The Chairperson of the Kigezi Tourism Cluster, Ivan Mbabazi Batuma, also warned that the delay could negatively affect the upcoming peak tourism season in July and August, when visitor numbers typically rise.
He said continued delays risk limiting access to Lake Bunyonyi and disrupting tourism operations across the region.
Responding to the concerns, Minister of Works and Transport Fred Byamukama acknowledged that several road projects, including the Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi road, have stalled.
He attributed the delays to payment-related disputes, with some contractors reportedly demanding additional funds from government. He also raised concerns over alleged collusion between some engineers and contractors, which he said contributes to inflated project costs and delayed completion.
“I want to assure the public that the ministry intends to strengthen oversight mechanisms in this current term of office to ensure value for money in road construction projects,” Byamukama said.
“These measures will help address the persistent problem of stalled infrastructure projects,” he added.