Bukasa–Sentema Road Tarmacking Set to Begin Next Month

Construction of the Bukasa–Sentema–Kakiri road has reached 44.5 percent completion, surpassing targets, with officials confirming that tarmacking is expected to begin next month under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme.

Construction works on the Bukasa–Sentema–Kakiri road project have reached 44.5 percent completion, exceeding the planned 36 percent target, with officials confirming that tarmacking is expected to begin next month.

The multi-billion-shilling project is being implemented under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP), funded by the World Bank and the Government of Uganda, with works executed by Chongqing International Construction Corporation (CICO).

During a site inspection led by GKMA-UDP Project Focal Person Achilles Kiwanuka, government officials and technical teams assessed progress and reviewed challenges affecting communities along the road corridor.

Engineers reported that about five kilometres of the road have already been prepared for asphalt surfacing following completion of sub-base works.

From Kilometer 0 to Kilometer 5, the road has largely reached formation level, while works continue beyond Kilometer 5 involving stabilized gravel sub-base and crushed aggregate placement ahead of tarmacking.

Kiwanuka commended the contractor for progressing ahead of schedule, noting that the pace of works reflects effective utilisation of project financing from the World Bank and government.

Resident Engineer Simon Odoch said the project is now transitioning from major earthworks into pavement layering, a key stage before asphalt surfacing begins next month.

However, local leaders raised concerns over the project’s impact on surrounding communities. Felix Semuju Mwanje, the LC3 Engineer, urged careful review of junction designs to ensure residents maintain access to homes and businesses.

“We must ensure that the positioning of junctions does not negatively affect community movement and accessibility,” Semuju said.

Assistant Resident District Commissioner Jotham Kikurwe raised concerns over flooding in some areas, warning that changes in drainage patterns have left sections vulnerable to water accumulation.

“These concerns require constant engagement with the community. People need to understand the ongoing interventions and be assured that their concerns are being handled,” Kikurwe said.

Semuju also flagged concerns over water diversion works undertaken by another entity, saying the expansion beyond the planned scope has worsened congestion and disrupted natural drainage systems.

The District Internal Security Officer (DISO) praised CICO for maintaining steady progress and urged stakeholders to ensure quality and timely delivery of the project.

“This road carries significant political and economic importance, therefore timely completion and quality work remain critical,” the DISO said.

Some residents have reportedly expressed concern over limited access to homes in sections where road alignment has been adjusted during construction.

Environmental issues also emerged around Kaantongo and Nakinyola swamps, where engineers installed box culverts to regulate water flow and protect sensitive ecosystems.

Authorities further revealed that the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) intervened after an individual allegedly attempted to reclaim wetland land within the project corridor at Kaantongo.

Once complete, the Bukasa–Sentema–Kakiri road is expected to significantly improve transport connectivity within the Greater Kampala metropolitan area.