Mukono Residents Fume as Shs1.2bn Matumbwe River Project Remains Stalled

Residents in Mukono District’s Seeta Namuganga Sub-county are sounding the alarm over the indefinite delay of a crucial river crossing project at Matumbwe River. The Shs1.2 billion contract, awarded to Jefflen Industrial Solutions Ltd in May 2026 with a 10-month completion timeline, has yet to see any construction activity.

The stalled project has created significant hardship, particularly for traders who struggle to transport goods across the now flooded river, with some resorting to risky motorcycle crossings. The situation is dire for schoolchildren, who are forced to wade through dirty, floodwaters, often removing their shoes to reach their classrooms.

One student, James Mutyaba, a Senior Four candidate, recounted the financial strain of using an alternative, longer route to take his exams due to the flooded crossing, incurring an extra Shs10,000 over three days.

Frustrated locals are calling for immediate action from Mukono District authorities, with some suggesting the contract should be terminated if work doesn’t resume. Abudallah Mivule, a resident, highlighted the difficulty in accessing essential services like hospitals and shops in Kasawo Town Council due to the poor state of the crossing and has appealed to the Minister of Local Government for intervention.

Mukono District Engineer Herbert Lutwaama confirmed that the contractor has been equipped with the necessary resources, making the lack of progress concerning. The district has attempted to engage the contractor multiple times without success and is now considering recommending contract cancellation and legal action to the Ministry of Works and Transport.

The prolonged delay continues to disrupt daily life, affecting access to education, healthcare, and economic activities. Residents are urging for swift intervention to ensure the project’s completion and provide a safe passage, especially during the rainy season.

Source: Nile Post