Residents and local leaders in Mityana District have renewed their call for increased government investment in road infrastructure and rural electrification, arguing that the two sectors remain central to unlocking social and economic development in the area.
The leaders say the absence of a functional district road unit has severely affected the maintenance and rehabilitation of community access roads, leaving many parts of the district with poor transport networks that hinder movement of people, agricultural produce, and essential services.
According to local leaders, several roads have deteriorated over time, becoming difficult to use, especially during the rainy season when some routes become nearly impassable.
“Without a functional road unit, it has become difficult for the district to effectively maintain and improve roads. This has affected trade, access to health facilities, and the movement of farmers who depend on these roads to transport their produce to markets,” said Lukyamuzi Bazeketa, Mayor of Ttamu Division.
Residents also raised concern over limited access to electricity in several rural communities, noting that many villages remain off the national grid despite ongoing rural electrification efforts.
They said the lack of electricity continues to slow development by limiting business opportunities, access to information, and the establishment of small-scale industries that could create jobs for local people.
“Many villages are still without electricity, yet power is essential for development. It supports businesses, improves education, and creates opportunities for young people. Communities that remain off the grid continue to lag behind in development,” said Fred Wotonava, a resident.
Leaders further noted that weak infrastructure has affected service delivery in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture, which remain the backbone of the district economy.
They are now appealing to both central government and elected leaders to prioritize infrastructure development, particularly the establishment of a road unit and the expansion of electricity coverage to underserved communities.
“Improving roads and expanding electricity coverage should be among the top priorities if we are to transform rural livelihoods and accelerate development in Mityana. These investments will have a direct impact on the lives of ordinary citizens,” Bazeketa said.
The renewed appeal comes as district leaders continue to highlight infrastructure gaps they say must be addressed to stimulate economic growth, improve service delivery, and enhance the quality of life for residents across Mityana District.