Ntenjeru-Bule Road Upgrade Sparks Economic Surge in Mukono

Residents and business owners in Mukono District are experiencing a significant uplift in their livelihoods due to the ongoing upgrade of the 7.8-kilometre Ntenjeru–Bule Road. This infrastructure project, part of the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP), is already showing positive impacts on the local community.

For years, the area suffered from poor road accessibility, making it difficult and expensive to transport goods to nearby markets like Ggaba. “Most of the money they earned went straight into transport costs,” explained Alice Nakimuli, a resident, highlighting how eroded gullies often made roads impassable for vehicles and motorcycles.

Since construction began, mobility has dramatically improved. Local leaders report a surge in the area’s population, with estimates suggesting the number of residents has nearly doubled. This growth is also benefiting educational institutions; Kamda Secondary School has seen its enrollment jump from around 230 to approximately 700 students, and new private schools are emerging to meet demand.

Tourism and hospitality businesses, previously hampered by poor infrastructure, are now poised for a comeback. Several beaches and resorts that had ceased operations are undergoing renovations, anticipating a revival of visitor traffic. The demand for rental housing has also skyrocketed, with prices increasing significantly.

The area is being positioned as a future satellite city to ease urban pressure on Kampala. To further enhance connectivity, local leaders are exploring the establishment of a ferry docking site, which would create a crucial transport link.

The road project, contracted by China Railway No. 5, is approximately 30 per cent complete and is funded by the World Bank at a cost of Shs35.7 billion. Despite some delays due to weather and cultural resource challenges, the contractors are confident in meeting the project deadline.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda) https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ntenjeru-bule-road-spurs-mukono-business-boom-5486922