In a major stride toward improving rural road infrastructure and boosting economic activities, Bunyangabu District on Friday successfully launched mechanised road maintenance works for two key community access roads.

The roads to be rehabilitated include the 2.4-kilometre Katugunda–Karambi I Road connecting Nyakigumba Town Council to Kisomoro Sub-county and the 1.5-kilometre Busiita Circular Road in Nyakigumba Town Council.

During the launch, the District Roads Engineer, Mr. Wilson Mutegeki, gave a comprehensive breakdown of the scope of work for both roads. 

For the Busiita Circular Road, Eng Mutegeki explained that the project will involve; clearing and grading the entire 1.5 km road length, shaping and filling all existing gullies, opening and cleaning side drains to enhance water flow, installing two lines of culverts at selected water crossing points, and spot gravelling. 

The maintenance work on the Busiita Circular Road is budgeted at Shs 60 million. It is expected to significantly improve access for residents of Busiita and surrounding areas, who heavily depend on this route to transport agricultural produce to nearby markets.

For the Katugunda–Karambi I Road, which connects Nyakigumba Town Council to Kisomoro Sub-county, the engineer stated that the works will include; full clearing and grading of the 2.4 km stretch, opening and cleaning of roadside drains, shaping and filling of all gullies and re-establishing drainage channels. This road maintenance project will cost Shs 16 million. 

Mutegeki further clarified that both road projects are expected to be completed within one month from the launch date, provided that weather conditions remain favourable. He urged community members to cooperate with the technical teams, noting that no compensation will be given for any encroachments

“These are public roads. There will be no compensation whatsoever. I advise all residents to respect the road reserves and refrain from obstructing the works,” he emphasized.

Speaking during the event, Deputy RDC Mr Robert Kamuntu commended the government for prioritizing infrastructure development in Bunyangabu District, especially in rural and peri-urban areas where road access has been a challenge.

“We thank the central government for making these funds available. These roads are going to improve movement for our farmers, school children, and traders. I encourage our people to use the improved roads for income-generating activities—take your produce to market, access services faster, and explore economic opportunities,” Mr Kamuntu said.

The Deputy RDC also warned against acts of vandalism and theft of road construction materials, saying such acts undermine development and community progress.

Hon. Amon Rutenta, the District Secretary for Works, Production and Natural Resources, called upon residents to take personal responsibility for protecting the newly maintained roads. He issued a strong warning against practices that contribute to road degradation.

“We are cautioning the public against blocking drainage channels, dumping kitchen refuse onto the road, and cultivating or grazing animals in the road reserves. These acts are illegal and counterproductive,” Hon. Rutenta said. “Once these roads are rehabilitated, it is our collective duty to ensure they remain in good condition.”