Ministry of Works and Transport launches new road and bridge specifications

The Ministry of Works and Transport is set to unveil the General Specifications for Road and Bridge Works 2026, a major update to the previous 2005 guidelines. The official launch event will take place at Speke Resort Munyonyo, with the Chief Guest, Gen. Katumba Wamala, Minister for Works and Transport, presiding over the occasion.

The new specifications are designed to enhance the quality of road and bridge construction and maintenance in Uganda, addressing current gaps and streamlining service delivery within the ministry. According to engineers from the Ministry, the General Road and Bridge Specifications 2026 aim to improve compliance, performance standards, and evaluation processes for road projects across the country.

These updated specifications will serve as a comprehensive tool for contracting, monitoring, material quality assurance, and the performance evaluation of roads and bridges. They will also establish clear procedures for measurement and payment, inspection, testing, and acceptance of completed projects. By ensuring uniform standards, the guidelines are expected to lead to better execution of road and bridge projects.

During his address to engineers, Gen. Katumba Wamala emphasized the importance of these new specifications in delivering infrastructure projects that benefit the public. He urged engineers to embrace and implement the updated guidelines, stressing that they are vital in meeting the government’s vision for better roads and bridges.

The Minister also provided an update on the much-anticipated Kampala Flyover Project, revealing that Lot 2 of the project will soon kick off following confirmation from JICA, Uganda’s donor partner. The second phase will see the construction of flyover bridges, running from Mukwano to Kitgum House Roundabout, and extending to the former Electoral Commission offices and Centenary Park.

While unveiling the new specifications, Gen. Katumba Wamala also cautioned against premature contract awards. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that critical steps, such as land acquisition, impact assessments, and other necessary reports, are completed before contractors are engaged. This caution comes in response to recent delays in roadworks due to overlooked planning steps, which have caused extended project timelines.

“The implementation of the new specifications is not just about setting standards; it is about ensuring that the public benefits from the infrastructure we build,” Wamala said, urging engineers to put the guidelines into practice to improve the quality and timeliness of road and bridge works.