Mukono Residents Block Kampala- Jinja Highway in Protest Over Dust

Residents of Kigombya village in Mukono Municipality on Friday blocked the Kampala–Jinja highway, setting fires in the middle of the road to protest its deteriorating condition.

They say the thick dust from stalled road works has disrupted their businesses and posed serious health risks.

The protests stem from road construction that began in October 2025, when contractor EnergoProjekt removed the top layer of a one-kilometer stretch of the road at Kigombya.

Six months later, the road remains incomplete, leaving residents to endure dust clouds and frequent traffic accidents.

To draw attention to their grievances, demonstrators blocked traffic using burning tires, paralyzing movement between Kampala and Jinja.

They called on the Ministry of Works and Transport to urgently resume and complete the long-delayed project.

Police from Mukono District were swiftly deployed to disperse the crowd with teargas and clear the road for vehicles to pass.

Local business owners say the ongoing dust has heavily impacted their livelihoods.

Furniture dealers and pharmacy owners report losses amounting to millions of shillings, with no support or response from authorities despite still being required to pay rent and taxes.

Wilbert Ainomugisha, a furniture vendor, said his goods have been destroyed by dust and his customers have vanished.

“I can’t even afford rent anymore. I'm not making any profits,” he said.

Lillian Nakawesa, who runs a restaurant in the area, echoed similar frustration.

“The dust is everywhere. My food goes untouched. I had no choice but to close until the road is fixed.”

James Mujunga, the LC one chairman of Kigombya village, expressed dismay over what he described as the government's neglect.

He added that several commercial houses along the Kampala- Jinja highway are deserted.

“It’s shocking that this road has been left in such a state,” he said.

Commenting about the matter, Allan Ssempebwa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Works and Transport, said the delay is due to funding challenges.

However, he assured residents that funds are expected before the end of the fiscal year and that work will resume once financing is secured.

The protests stem from road construction that began in October 2025, when contractor EnergoProjekt removed the top layer of a one-kilometer stretch of the road at Kigombya.