government 29 August 2026 Parliament of Uganda
MPs Grill Ministry Over Stalled Bridge Projects Despite Funding
A parliamentary committee has expressed frustration over the slow progress and stalled construction of several vital bridges across Uganda, despite significant funds being allocated and released. The Committee on Government Assurances and Implementation conducted an oversight visit to assess the status of up to 30 bridge projects. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4588/committee-govt-assurances-riled-unfinished-bridges-countryside
Members of Parliament on the Committee on Government Assurances and Implementation have voiced strong displeasure regarding the delayed completion of numerous bridge construction projects nationwide. During a week-long tour from August 17th to 21st, 2026, the committee inspected about 30 bridges, finding significant setbacks in districts like Manafwa, Tororo, Madi-Okollo, and Arua.
In Arua District, the Odrua, Alla, and Osu bridges, for which Shs28 billion was allocated, have been stalled since 2021. Committee Chairperson Hon. Francis Zaake highlighted issues including the non-compensation of affected individuals, exclusion of local authorities from planning, poor drainage, substandard tarmac, and silted riverbanks. “No compensation has been done. Ministry of Works and Transport promised to compensate people by 2024, but up to now the affected people do not know what do next,” Zaake stated.
The Madi-Okollo District experienced similar frustrations, with the Aca and Gaza bridges, funded with Shs29.5 billion, taking seven years to progress. Construction on Aca Bridge began in 2019 and was due in 2022. “The State Minister for Works and Transport while at Parliament told us that this Aca Bridge was completed up to 92 percent. Based on the facts on ground, Ministry of Works and Transport will be summoned to explain the irregularities in the project before the committee,” Zaake added.
Locals shared harrowing experiences, noting that impassable roads due to unfinished works have led to loss of life, especially during rainy seasons. “We have lost some people; a school head teacher and a religious leader due to flooding,” a resident shared.
Further concerns were raised about the Amodo Bridge in Dokolo District, a presidential pledge from 2018. Despite construction starting in January 2026, the project is only at five percent completion, with Shs500 million released. A Ministry of Works official attributed delays to water backflow from Lake Kwania but assured the committee that works have resumed and are expected to finish by 2028.
The committee also inspected bridges in Manafwa and made recommendations for safety improvements, such as adding reflectors and caution tape, along Rubongi Bridge in Tororo District. The committee is expected to present its full findings to Parliament soon.