UGANDA, Kamwenge | Real Muloodi News | Kamwenge District residents can now easily access services following the completion and inauguration of the Mpanga Bridge. The USh9 billion bridge was solely funded by the Ugandan government.
The newly constructed Mpanga Bridge connects the Kamwenge town council with Kabambiro Sub County and other areas in Kamwenge District.
In a ceremony on Saturday 18th September 2021, Robinah Nabbanja, the Prime Minister of Uganda, formally handed the bridge over to the Kabambiro sub-county community. The Minister of State for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama accompanied the Prime Minister.
Armpass Technical Service Limited constructed the bridge under the supervision of the Uganda National Roads Authority.
According to Kamwenge residents, before the bridge’s construction, the place was impenetrable and had become a deathtrap to many travellers, especially traders buying produce from farmers.
“That bridge was made of timber five years ago, and during the rainy season, the river would get full and people would fear passing [ crossing it] but now we are very optimistic that people are going to resume their business, most especially farmers taking their produce to markets,” says Mr James Tumusiime, a resident of Kaburasoke Village.
Mr Sabiti Musiime, another resident from Kabambiro, said the make-shift bridge was always slippery during the rainy season, making it difficult for vehicles to pass.
Ms Robinah Nabbanja advised Kamwenge residents to utilise the newly commissioned bridge since it connects to different places.
“People had no access to other places, but now the access is there and I know they will develop. They can transport their goods,” the Prime Minister said.
According to Ms Robinah Nabanja, Uganda relies mainly on its road network to transport over 90% of its goods and passenger traffic. A sound infrastructure is necessary for strong, private sector-led growth that leads to economic development and poverty reduction.
The government has since embarked on a reconstruction of several bridges and roads countrywide to ensure connectivity and mobility easing trade and access services.
The bridge’s construction began in February 2019 and ended in December 2020, with an estimated lifespan of 120 years. Mpanga Bridge is seated atop river Mpanga and is 30 metres long.
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