NELSON K
Buhunga Boda Boda cyclists and residents have raised concerns over the rapidly deteriorating condition of the Buhunga–Mitooma Road, citing the increasing number of potholes as a major cause of accidents and disruption of transport services.
In a show of community spirit, concerned residents and local leaders have recently launched a campaign to repair the dangerous potholes, aiming to ease transportation and reduce transport costs for road users.
Boda Boda cyclists, led by Ivan Nuwamanya and Kenneth Kavimbi, told Boona FM that the potholes have become particularly dangerous at specific points—most notably near Katurika Secondary School and Dr. Kamugisha’s residence in Buhunga Parish, Buhunga Subcounty. These sections of the road force drivers and riders to swerve or compete for safer paths, leading to frequent accidents.
They added that the potholes have persisted for over one and a half years, greatly affecting transportation and trade, especially during the rainy season, despite the rest of the road being in relatively fair condition.
Other residents living along the road, who preferred to remain anonymous, also confirmed to Boona FM that accidents have been on the rise, particularly at the gate of Katurika Secondary School. They called for more support and intensified campaigns to rehabilitate the road and prevent further deterioration.
In response to the ongoing concerns, Niwabiine Julius Rwankwija, a Buhunga Parish Councillor aspirant, has launched a community campaign to fill the potholes while awaiting government intervention. He began the exercise earlier today, focusing first on the large pothole near Katurika Secondary School, which recently caused an accident involving a lorry. Students in the area remain at high risk.
Mr. Niwabiine also revealed to Boona FM that he has embarked on another project to curb theft and improve night-time security in the area through the installation of solar-powered streetlights in Kariizo Town. Currently, three solar lights are operational. He acknowledged support from Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo, the NRM flag bearer for Rukungiri District Woman MP, who donated a fourth solar light to the campaign.
He also appreciated the support of other community leaders, including the Buhunga LC3 Chairperson, Benon Mugisha, and Rwakaana Corosistom, for their consistent efforts in supporting developmental initiatives in the area.
However, Mr. Niwabiine expressed disappointment in the Rujumbura County MP, Hon. Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, accusing him of failing to fulfill his promise of providing security lights for the community, which to date have not been delivered.
