KCCA OFFICIALLY RECEIVES KAMPALA FLYOVER FROM MINISTRY OF WORKS AND TRANSPORT

The Ministry of Works and Transport has officially handed over the Kampala Flyover Lot 1 Project Works and equipment to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) for operation and maintenance.

The handover ceremony took place on February 19, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Uganda’s efforts to improve urban mobility and ease traffic congestion in the capital.

The Kampala Flyover Project aims to alleviate traffic congestion through road upgrades, flyover and underpass construction, and intersection improvements. The project, funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is designed to enhance the transportation network within the Greater Kampala area.

Eng. Justus Akankwasa, representing KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki, committed that KCCA will uphold its maintenance responsibilities to maximize the benefits of the project for all road users.

“This project is one of a kind and we commit to maintaining it well, ensuring it serves its intended purpose for its 100-year design lifespan,” Akankwasa said.

Buzeki commended President Yoweri Museveni, the Government of Uganda, and all stakeholders for their contributions to the successful completion of the project.

He also extended appreciation to the Government of Japan and JICA for their financial support and technical expertise, ensuring high-quality infrastructure development.

Engineer-in-Chief Eng. Stephen K. Kitonsa from the Ministry of Works and Transport officially handed over the project components to KCCA, which include:

Clock Tower Flyover, Shoprite Pedestrian Bridge, Clock Tower Circular Bridge, Kibuli Pedestrian Bridge, Nsambya Underpass, New Clock Tower, Widened and strengthened roads,Water fountains and pump house, among others.

Others are five signalized junctions (Nsambya, Kibuli Overpass, and others),  Improved drainage system, Electrical installation for signals, street lights, four transformers, traffic signal controllers, 41 traffic signal poles, Nsambya Underpass lighting, nine gantries for traffic light installations among others.

Additionally, the Ministry handed over maintenance equipment to KCCA, including one street sweeper truck, one drain pipe cleaner, two high-pressure washers and two road patrol cars

Despite the successful completion of the project, challenges such as vandalism and reckless road use have been noted. Reports indicate that manhole ladder steps have been stolen, while some pedestrian walkways are being occupied by vendors.

Kitonsa called for continuous sensitization and enforcement to curb such issues and maintain the project's integrity.

Errant boda boda riders who ride recklessly within the newly developed infrastructure also pose a concern. Authorities have urged compliance with road safety regulations to prevent accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow.

Hideshi Yamashita, JICA Uganda’s Senior Representative, emphasized that completing the project is only the beginning.

He stressed the need for proper maintenance, continuous improvement, and adaptation to ensure sustainable and safe infrastructure development.

“This handover ceremony reaffirms our commitment that Uganda’s infrastructure meets not only current needs but also future demands. Effective operation and maintenance will deliver lasting benefits to the people of Uganda,” Yamashita stated.

The Kampala Flyover Project, which commenced in 2019, is expected to significantly contribute to Uganda’s economic growth by improving transportation efficiency, reducing congestion, and enhancing connectivity within the city.

The project aligns with Uganda’s long-term vision of sustainable urban development and poverty reduction.