UGANDA, Masaka | Real Muloodi News | The government has reaffirmed its stance on providing no compensation to property owners residing within the road reserve along the Masaka-Kyotera–Mutukula highway. This announcement comes as construction works commence on the highly anticipated road project, aiming to enhance connectivity and trade facilitation between Uganda and Tanzania.
Over the past four years, numerous developers have erected both commercial and residential buildings within the demarcated route, anticipating substantial compensation from the government.
However, Works and Transport Minister, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, emphasised that properties located within the road reserve would be considered as encroachments, thereby rendering the owners ineligible for compensation.
“The planned roadworks will be within the existing road reserve, and whoever will be affected will be considered as an encroacher,” stated Gen Wamala during the official commissioning of road works in Kyotera Town.
The Prime Minister, Ms Robinah Nabbanja, presided over the function, underscoring the government’s commitment to infrastructural development despite challenges faced by property owners in Masaka.
While addressing compensation concerns, Gen Wamala highlighted the road’s new design, emphasising the elimination of sharp bends for improved safety and efficiency.
He mentioned that a few residents with structures outside the road reserve might be eligible for compensation, focusing primarily on mitigating their losses.
“In our agreement with the contractor, we have agreed that he will work for two years [pre-financing arrangement] as we look for money to pay him,” Gen Wamala explained.
The government has enlisted Chongqing International Cooperation (CICO) to undertake the construction, with a duration of 40 months, encompassing various infrastructural enhancements along the highway.
Upon completion, the minister assured the installation of street lights in every township along the route, enhancing visibility and safety for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Additionally, the contractor will undertake improvements on adjacent roads, including the Nyendo-Villa Maria Road, Kasijjagirwa Barracks Road, and Industrial Hub, amounting to Shs629 billion.
Prime Minister Nabbanja emphasised the importance of local participation in the project, urging the contractor to provide employment opportunities for unskilled manual workers from the district.
However, she cautioned against compromising quality, emphasising the need for adherence to construction standards and practices.
The Masaka-Kyotera–Mutukula highway, spanning 89.5 km, has long been plagued by poor conditions, resulting in prolonged travel times for motorists and hindered trade activities.
The section between Kyotera and Mutukula border town has been particularly problematic, impacting the movement of traders and cargo between Uganda and Tanzania.
Mr John Paul Mpalanyi, the Kyotera County MP, welcomed the initiative, highlighting its significance in promoting trade and regional cooperation.
He emphasised the role of the road in facilitating cross-border commerce and urged swift action to address longstanding infrastructure challenges.
Background information reveals the historical importance of the Masaka-Kyotera-Mutukula road, established nearly six decades ago to bolster trade ties between Uganda, Tanzania, and neighbouring East African countries.
Despite periodic maintenance efforts, the road’s deteriorating condition has necessitated comprehensive reconstruction to meet modern standards and accommodate growing trade volumes.
As construction progresses on the Masaka-Kyotera–Mutukula highway, stakeholders remain optimistic about the road’s transformative impact on trade, mobility, and regional integration.
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