President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially commissioned the construction of the Kayunga–Bbaale–Galiraya Road, a transformative infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity between Northern and Central Uganda and accelerating economic development.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony held in Kayunga District, President Museveni emphasized the strategic importance of the 87-kilometer road.
“Traveling from Amolatar through Kayunga to Kampala covers roughly 100 miles. But if you take the longer route via Karuma and Soroti, the distance nearly doubles to 200 miles. That is why this road is so crucial,” he explained.
The road will be constructed by China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) at a total cost of Shs213.9 billion. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months, with CRBC financing construction upfront. The Ugandan government will begin payments two years after completion and oversight of the project will be handled by the Ministry of Works and Transport.
According to the ministry, the road will not only reduce travel time and transportation costs but also significantly enhance trade and economic activity by linking districts such as Kayunga, Amolatar, and Lira to Kampala and other key economic centers.
“This is not just a tarmac road; it is a tool for economic transformation,” Gen. Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport said.
One of the project’s most notable aspects is the patriotic contribution of the local community. Residents of Kayunga voluntarily offered land for the road without seeking compensation, a move that President Museveni praised as both wise and patriotic.
“You once told me, ‘Give us the road, and we will not ask for compensation for the land it passes through.’ That was a clever and patriotic decision,” the President said, adding that the gesture saved the government an estimated UGX 76 billion.
To enhance water transport, the project will also include the construction of a ferry landing site at Galiraya (Kawongo), which will link the road corridor across Lake Kyoga and facilitate water transport.
H.E. Zhang Lizhong, the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, welcomed the continued partnership between China and Uganda.
“To be rich, build a road first. We are proud to support Uganda on this journey. Infrastructure is the backbone of development,” the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda stated.
While celebrating the development, President Museveni reminded residents that true transformation begins at home. “
You do not sleep on the road; you sleep in your house. Wealth creation starts in the household,” he said.
Once completed, the Kayunga–Bbaale–Galiraya Road is expected to open access to social services, strengthen agricultural and fisheries value chains, and serve as a vital economic artery for regional integration in Uganda.
