The Ministry of Works and Transport has commenced critical rehabilitation works on the Fort Portal–Bundibugyo–Congo highway, a crucial artery for trade, mobility, and regional integration in Western Uganda.
Speaking during a media briefing on Monday April 21, 2025, State Minister for Works, Hon. Musa Ecweru, announced that the government had launched the initiative in response to extensive damage caused by recent landslides.
The project, he said, aims to restore safe access, revive local commerce, and boost economic growth in the affected regions.
“This highway is essential for trade, tourism, and regional integration,” We are mobilizing resources and working relentlessly to clear debris and repair the damaged sections. The well-being of our people and the sustainability of cross-border trade depend on it.” Minister Ecweru stated.
The 104-kilometer highway, which links Uganda to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), was severely impacted by a series of landslides in areas such as Dump village, where a massive mudslide led to significant debris buildup and partial road collapse.
Additional disruptions have been reported in Karugutu, Ntoroko District, and at the Kirumya Bridge in Kichwamba, compromising access and endangering livelihoods.
On Sunday, April 20, Minister Ecweru joined a technical inspection tour led by engineers from the Ministry and representatives from the China Communication Construction Company (CCCC), the project’s contractors.
The tour covered the route from Mityana through Mubende to Fort Portal and Bundibugyo.
Local leaders welcomed the government’s swift intervention. Robert Tibanukirwa, Chairperson of the Bundibugyo District Council, expressed concern for residents in Buhenderwa County, particularly Dumba village, where fear of additional road washouts has grown.
“Families are on edge, constantly fearing the road will be washed away,”“We are grateful for the government’s response and call for continued urgency in restoring this lifeline.” Tibanukirwa said.
The rehabilitation project focuses on stabilizing vulnerable road segments, reinforcing bridges, and clearing landslide debris to restore full functionality. It is especially crucial for farmers and traders transporting agricultural produce to regional and cross-border markets.
Residents of Bundibugyo and Ntoroko districts have lauded the initiative, citing the highway’s vital role in sustaining economic activity and connecting communities to essential services.
As works officially begin on April 21, 2025, the Ministry has committed to providing regular updates to ensure transparency and maintain public confidence.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution while traveling through affected areas and to cooperate with on-site teams to facilitate timely completion of repairs.
Through this emergency intervention, the government aims not only to restore connectivity but also to build resilience against future disasters, thereby promoting sustainable development across Western Uganda and its cross-border trade zones.
