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Kinkiizi West legislator, Hon James Ruugi Kaberuka, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the deplorable condition of tourism roads in Kanungu district, particularly the Kanyatorogo-Butogota road leading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Expressing concern, Kaberuka highlighted that the poor road network in the area, especially leading to significant tourism centers, poses a potential threat to the tourism industry if immediate improvements are not made. Despite the tourism potential of Kanungu district, which includes attractions like Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest mountains, accessing these sites becomes challenging during the rainy season due to road closures.
Kaberuka is urging the government to expedite its plan to upgrade all tourism roads in the Kigezi region, emphasizing the critical role of these roads in supporting the tourism sector. He points out that besides benefiting tourists, these improved roads would also facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce, such as tea and coffee, to various markets. Additionally, local residents could sell crafts to tourists, contributing to their income.
The legislator has already brought this issue to the attention of Parliament and other relevant offices for consideration.
In response, Hon Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance and MP for Kinkiizi East, acknowledges the government’s awareness of the situation. He mentions that funding has been allocated to districts, with each district receiving 1 billion shillings for road maintenance. However, this funding is specifically designated for maintaining existing roads and not for constructing new ones.
In a letter dated November 21st, Gen Edward Katumba Wamara, the Minister of Works and Transport, directed all districts not to utilize the 1 billion shillings disbursed for road maintenance during heavy rains. He cautioned that doing so would put the roads at risk of being washed away again and advised districts to wait for the rains to subside before undertaking maintenance activities.
