Lango Leaders Demand Accountability Over Road Project Exclusions

Heavy rains have exacerbated the poor state of roads across the Lango Sub-region, making travel arduous, increasing transport costs for farmers, and restricting access to essential services like markets and healthcare facilities.

This situation has led local leaders to question why numerous priority routes in the area’s nine districts and Lira City seem to have been overlooked in national infrastructure development plans. Concerns are mounting over the equitable distribution of funds for road upgrades.

David Kennedy Odongo, former chairperson of Alebtong District, stated, “We demand an explanation from the rightful authorities. Why is it that the entire sub-region was neglected and not planned for the entire financial year?” He highlighted critical roads such as Amolatar-Dokolo, Lira-Aloi-Otuke-Abim-Kotido, and others that have previously been slated for improvement but remain in disrepair.

Odongo emphasized that the deteriorating road network weakens connectivity between Lira City and its neighbours, making routes like Lira-Alebtong and Apala-Aloi-Dokolo nearly impassable. This poor connectivity severely impacts residents’ ability to engage in business, education, and access healthcare services.

He argued that infrastructure funding should be based on community needs, not political considerations. “It is the question of equity. It is about equity. How are we distributing the national cake? The national cake… the one that translates exactly to the last person… is the infrastructure, which road is very key,” Odongo asserted.

The poor road conditions significantly affect the agricultural sector, a vital source of income for many in Lango. Farmers struggle to transport their produce to markets, leading to lower earnings due to high transport costs and the inability to reach wider markets. This undermines government initiatives like the Parish Development Model, which aims to boost household incomes.

Patrick Ogwang, a political commentator, noted that recent rains have highlighted the scale of the problem, with some motorists forced to take lengthy detours. He called for an emergency response plan and additional funding to repair damaged roads and prevent communities from becoming isolated, particularly in low-lying areas.

Amolatar District chairperson Morish Ogwal Omara confirmed they are seeking emergency funding from the Prime Minister’s office due to severe road damage. Lira District chairperson RCM Okello Orik cited aging machinery as a constraint for effective road maintenance, requesting support for new equipment.

Concerns have also been raised about road access to the Akii-Bua Stadium, with leaders urging the government to prioritize connecting routes to ensure accessibility for major sporting events and to stimulate local economic activity.

As the rainy season continues, leaders are advocating for both long-term investment in paved roads and immediate maintenance of existing routes. They warn that inaction will lead to continued economic losses for farmers, disruptions for businesses, and difficulties in accessing essential services for residents. Odongo concluded that calls for better roads should be seen as a demand for equitable national development, transcending political affiliations.

Source: Nile Post