Uganda Allocates Shs8.8 Trillion to Roads and Railway Projects for FY2026/27

The Ugandan government is set to allocate a substantial Shs8.8 trillion towards its roads and railway infrastructure development plan for the 2026/27 financial year. This ambitious spending aims to drive economic growth and enhance regional connectivity.

A key focus will be the completion of critical road projects, including the long-delayed Kira-Kasangati-Matugga Road. This 23-kilometer stretch, which has faced considerable delays since construction began in 2020, is now slated for completion in the upcoming fiscal year. Other major highway projects targeted for completion include the Muyembe-Nakapiripirit road, the Tororo-Busia and Mayuge-Busia Town roads, and the Apac-Lira-Puranga road.

Beyond finishing ongoing projects, the Ministry of Works and Transport intends to initiate construction on an additional 697.6 kilometers of roads across various regions. Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama emphasized a priority on clearing the backlog of stalled and delayed projects, citing examples like the Mubende-Mityana and Mutukula roads.

The plan also includes extensive maintenance works for both paved and unpaved national roads, covering approximately 20,000 kilometers through manual and mechanized methods. Emergency reconstruction efforts will continue on sections like Katonga Bridge, which have previously hampered transport.

Significant investment is earmarked for the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA), which includes road upgrades, market construction, and drainage system improvements across Kampala Capital City Authority, Mukono, Wakiso, and Makindye-Ssabagabo, among others.

The government is also renewing its focus on rail transport to alleviate pressure on road networks and reduce freight costs. Plans are in motion to construct 272 kilometers of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and rehabilitate the existing Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) network. Initial efforts will concentrate on the Malaba-Kampala section of the SGR, with financing expected from domestic resources and development partners. The rehabilitation of the meter gauge line between Kampala and Malaba, along with infrastructure upgrades and locomotive procurement for the Uganda Railways Corporation, is also prioritized.

Furthermore, the aviation sector will see upgrades to several strategic airports and aerodromes, alongside efforts to bolster Uganda Airlines through fleet expansion and route network strengthening, including the acquisition of new aircraft.

This comprehensive infrastructure plan underscores the government’s commitment to improving national connectivity and facilitating economic development.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)