In a move to ensure the smooth implementation of the Nakawuka-Kasanje road project, leaders from Mpigi and Wakiso joined forces at an engagement led by the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala. The meeting, held at the Wakiso District Headquarters on 12th January 2024, saw key stakeholders coming together to discuss strategies for successfully executing this extensive road development initiative. The gathering included area Members of Parliament, Mayors, Local Council Leaders, and other prominent leaders.
The primary objective of the meeting was to harmonise efforts and ensure the seamless implementation of the Nakawuka-Kasanje road project, encompassing the vital links of Kisubi-Nakawuka-Nateete, Nakawuka-Kasanje-Mpigi, Nakawuka-Mawagulu-Nanziga-Maya, Kasanje-Buwaya, and Entebbe-Nakiwogo.
Gen. Katumba Wamala emphasised the project’s significance, highlighting it as a game-changer not only for the local area but for the entire country. He stressed that the project, fully funded by the Government of Uganda, is a source of pride for the leaders and urged communities to collaborate in ensuring its success. He also encouraged residents to prepare for the benefits the project would bring.
Eng. Samuel Muhoozi, the UNRA r Director for Roads and Bridges Development representing the UNRA ED, Ms. Allen Kagina, provided insight into the project’s scope, outlining key activities within its framework. These activities encompass a detailed engineering design, relocation of utility services, clearing and grubbing, excavation, roadbed preparation, drainage structure construction, pavement layers, asphalt concrete surfacing, street lighting, installation of ancillary items, and environmental protection.
China Communications Construction Company Ltd, the Contractor, has established two camps, strategically located in Akright Kitende and along Kisubi-Nakawuka, to facilitate the seamless execution and has initiated forward maintenance activities, underlining their commitment.
The ongoing project land acquisition process, managed by the UNRA in-house Team, is segmented into five volumes corresponding to the road links. Despite a projected total cost for land compensation standing at 358 billion Ugandan Shillings, only 5 billion has been allocated to the project. This amount only covers a fraction of the required funds, posing a challenge to the timely execution of the project.
The leaders committed to overcoming obstacles collectively, including the land compensation delays. Mathias Lwanga, the LC 5 chairman of Wakiso District, chaired the engagement. While closing the meeting, he reiterated that the leaders present committed to engaging the communities to facilitate the availability of land for construction and to collaborate for the socio-economic transformation of the region.
Once completed, the Nakawuka-Kasanje road project is expected to improve traffic flow significantly in Wakiso, Kampala, and Mpigi. Additionally, it will enhance the quality of the central region road network, reduce travel times to Entebbe Airport, and boost socio-economic development and accessibility.
