VANESSA A
Residents of Kagarama Town Council in Kajara County, Ntungamo District, have raised the alarm over the deteriorating condition of the Kagamba–Rutunguru road, a once vital tarmacked route that is now riddled with potholes and has become a hotspot for road accidents.
Despite being constructed 25 years ago, locals believe the road should have lasted longer, especially given its tarmacked nature. Community leaders and business people are now appealing to the Ministry of Works and Transport to prioritize the road’s rehabilitation before more lives are lost.
Nazarius Ahimbisibwe, the councilor representing Kagarama Central Ward, described the current state of the road as appalling. He highlighted severely damaged sections like Kakyigyere and the area around the late Rwomushana’s home, which have become accident blackspots. He noted that both motorists and Boda Boda riders have sustained injuries while trying to avoid potholes.
Nabaasa Emily Nice, the district councilor for Ihunga Subcounty and Kagarama Town Council, echoed the concerns, pointing out how the road becomes nearly impassable, especially after Kagamba. She said newcomers driving on the road for the first time find it very difficult, and the community has already registered numerous accidents. Despite several attempts to engage the Ministry of Works, no tangible intervention has been made.
Local businessman Boaz Bwengye from Ihunga also voiced his frustration. He said transporting goods to market has become a nightmare, particularly at the Kakyigyere section, which he described as the most dangerous. He pleaded with the authorities to intervene urgently to prevent more accidents and improve business movement.
Ntungamo District Engineer Moses Twiine acknowledged the community’s concerns and confirmed that the road is indeed in a bad state. He attributed the delay in repairs to the administrative transition from UNRA to the Ministry of Works, but reassured residents that plans are underway to address the issue soon.
As pressure mounts, the residents hope their collective voice will trigger quick and lasting action from the relevant authorities.
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