EDITOR
While the spotlight shines on the newly commissioned Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi tourism road for its regional tourism impact, the untold story lies in the transformative opportunities it promises for the local population. As construction begins on the UGX 122 billion project, co-funded by the Government of Uganda and the African Development Bank, attention is shifting to how the road will uplift local communities beyond tourism.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, where Deputy Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa represented President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the message was clear: this road is more than tarmac—it’s a path to prosperity for the people of Kabale and Kisoro.
President Museveni emphasized that the project is designed not just to boost tourism but also to link remote communities, strengthen agricultural value chains, and improve access to critical services via better intermodal transport, including ferries on Lake Bunyonyi.
“This road will open up economic opportunities. I urge communities to engage in supplying materials, labor, and services to the project. It’s time for the locals to reap tangible benefits,” the President stated in his message.
Indeed, the inclusion of four modern landing sites, two ferries, roadside markets, and a farm produce processing facility signals a direct investment in rural livelihoods. These additions will enable farmers and traders from island and highland areas to reach broader markets, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase household incomes.
Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to integrated development. “This is a test case for infrastructure that serves the people holistically—not just travelers,” he said, urging timely and inclusive implementation.
The contractor, Samcrete Egypt Engineers and Contractors, has been tasked with using local labor and sourcing materials within the region wherever possible. For residents like Mary Karungi, a single mother and roadside vendor in Kabale, this brings a wave of optimism. “We have always seen roads come and go without touching us. If this one brings jobs and a market, then it is truly a road for the people,” she said.
Kabale LC5 Chairperson Nelson Nshangabasheija echoed this community-focused sentiment, calling the road a “gateway to transformation.” He encouraged active involvement from the local youth and small-scale entrepreneurs.
While tourists will undoubtedly benefit from smoother travel to Lake Bunyonyi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the bigger victory may be for local families who will, for the first time, see a national project improve their daily lives.
As the machines roll out and the ground breaks open, hope rises from the soil—not just for more tourists, but for a more inclusive economy that works for the people of southwestern Uganda.
