Uganda Signs Contract with Japanese Firm for Construction of New Karuma Bridge

Uganda has taken another major step towards improving its transport infrastructure after signing a contract with Japan’s Zenitaka Corporation for the construction of a new Karuma Bridge.

The project, which will be financed through Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) Grant Aid programme, will replace the existing bridge that has served as a vital transport link for many years. The new bridge is expected to improve safety, reliability, and the efficient movement of people and goods along one of Uganda’s busiest road corridors.

Located on the Kampala–Gulu highway, Karuma Bridge is a critical gateway connecting the central region to Northern Uganda, West Nile, and neighboring countries such as South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The bridge carries thousands of vehicles every day, making it an essential piece of infrastructure for trade, tourism, and regional integration.

According to the government, construction of the new bridge is expected to begin in October 2026 following a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for September. Once completed, the project is expected to ease traffic flow, reduce travel delays, improve road safety, and support economic activities along the Northern Corridor.

The investment is also expected to strengthen access to social services by making it easier for communities to reach schools, health facilities, and markets. Businesses that rely on the highway to transport agricultural produce, manufactured goods, and other products are also expected to benefit from improved transport efficiency.

The project highlights the strong and long-standing partnership between Uganda and Japan, which has seen the two countries collaborate on several infrastructure and development initiatives over the years. Through its Official Development Assistance programme, Japan has supported Uganda in areas including transport, energy, water, and capacity building.

Government officials say the new Karuma Bridge will not only address the challenges posed by the aging structure but also support Uganda’s broader economic development agenda by improving connectivity and facilitating trade within the East African region.

With construction set to begin later this year, the project marks another important milestone in Uganda’s efforts to modernize its transport network and build infrastructure capable of supporting future economic growth.