KAMPALA CITY ROAD WORKS GAIN MOMENTUM

The Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP) has gained momentum with the near completion of several roads including Wamala, Kabega and Luwafu.

Other crucial roads such as Old Mubende and Kigala roads are also progressing well, with tarmac already laid.

Additionally, construction is underway on other critical routes such as Old Portbell Road, Portbell Road, Spring Road, Salaama Road, Mugema Road, Muzito Road, Fifth Street, Sixth Street, Seventh Street, Eighth Street, and Sir Apollo Kaggwa Road, among others.

These road projects are part of the government’s 2021-2026 National Resistance Movement (NRM) manifesto, which aims to construct 100 kilometers of roads within the city.

Despite initial delays of the project caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, KCRRP implemented by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) officially commenced in 2022 and has since shown substantial progress.

On July 15, the KCCA Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka, fresh from a strategic retreat in Kyankwazi, undertook an inspection tour of the ongoing road rehabilitation projects in the capital.

"The rehabilitation of the capital city roads is a strategic priority for the government, as it plays a crucial role in fostering economic development," Kisaka said.

Her first stop was the redevelopment project on Kayemba Road, a critical link connecting Katwe Ring Road to Mubutu Road beneath Queens Way in the Makindye division.

"The progress we have made so far is a testament to our commitment to improving Kampala's infrastructure and connectivity," noted Kisaka during the tour. "We appreciate the dedication of the contractors and the patience of the residents as we work towards a better city."

The Kayemba Road project, integral to KCRRP, aims to alleviate traffic congestion by modernizing key roads. Plans include demolishing and reconstructing the existing Kayemba Bridge in Katwe and expanding Kayemba Road.

Queens Way will also be expanded to eight lanes, with a new bridge constructed to facilitate smoother traffic flow.

During her inspection, Kisaka also visited Luwafu Road, Salaama Road in Makindye division, and Wamala Road in Lubaga division, praising contractors for their efforts in ensuring timely and quality project completion.

She emphasized the strategic importance of these road rehabilitations in fostering economic development and improving residents' quality of life.

The KCRRP also encompasses refurbishing 22 traffic junctions, creating 123 kilometers of non-motorized transport facilities, establishing parking spaces, bus depots, public toilets, and markets for women vendors along the project roads. Additionally, energy-efficient streetlights and urban beautification initiatives are enhancing Kampala's urban environment.

Despite challenges such as pandemic setbacks, slow contractor mobilization, delays in design reviews, and utility relocation complexities, Kisaka assured the public that KCCA has addressed these issues.

"These road rehabilitations are not just about transportation improvement; they aim to enhance Kampala's overall quality of life," Kisaka emphasized. "We are committed to delivering these projects on schedule and to the highest standards."

As KCRRP continues, Kampala residents eagerly anticipate the transformative impact these infrastructure improvements will have on the city's transportation network and economic vitality.