Staff Reporter
Residents and regular users of the Kanungu–Rugyeyo road and Kiruruma bridge in Kanungu District have expressed deep frustration over the worsening condition of the road network, which they say has made transport extremely difficult, especially during the rainy season.
The road, which connects Kanungu Town Council to Rugyeyo Sub-county, is now almost impassable in several sections due to deep trenches, stagnant water-filled potholes, and dangerous slipperiness. Locals say this key route plays a crucial role in transporting goods and accessing essential services such as healthcare.
Niwabeine Patience, a trader from Omukiragiro cell in Rugyeyo, emphasized the urgent need for both improved roads and the reconstruction of the Kiruruma bridge. She noted that transport costs have drastically increased due to the road’s poor state, bringing local businesses to a near standstill and affecting the movement of expectant mothers and the sick who rely on Rugyeyo Health Centre.
Ivan Mwesigwa, a resident of Kyampungu Kashojwa, lamented the lack of even a well-maintained murram road. He said travel to Kanungu town becomes nearly impossible when it rains, stalling development and isolating residents.
Of equal concern is the Kiruruma bridge, which connects the sub-county to Kanungu town. Mwesigwa revealed that the bridge has broken down again within a year of its renovation, pointing to possible substandard work. He urged both government and political aspirants to address the issue with urgency and demonstrate genuine commitment to community needs.
Kanungu District Councilor Joseph Akankwasa added his voice to the outcry, questioning the transparency in the use of public funds. He criticized the alleged practice of contractors using less money than budgeted, leading to poor-quality work. He called for strict supervision of road construction projects to ensure durability and value for money.
Residents now await a firm response from authorities to restore this critical transport route that links them to health, business, and opportunity.
