INTERN
Residents of Bikurungu Town Council and Bwambara Subcounty in Rukungiri District have raised concern over the worsening condition of the Bikurungu–Rwenshama road, citing skyrocketing transport costs and dangerous potholes that have hampered the movement of people and goods.
The affected road, which connects to Rwenshama fishing grounds, has become nearly impassable, forcing residents to use longer alternative routes such as the Nyamirama–Kanungu road.
Robert Mugisha, a resident of Kikarara–Bwambara, decried the persistent neglect by elected leaders who only show up during election time.
Lucia Kemigisha, also from Kikarara–Bwambara, and speaking on behalf of fishermen from Rwenshama, noted that the poor road has especially burdened vulnerable groups, including pregnant women who struggle to access proper antenatal care. She questioned whether she would participate in the next elections, citing dissatisfaction with leadership.
Responding to these concerns, Kagayano Chris, the LC3 Chairperson of Bwambara Subcounty, clarified that the Bikurungu–Rwenshama road falls under the jurisdiction of the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA). He appealed for patience from the residents, noting that the delay in repairs stemmed from fuel limitations and administrative transitions from UNRA to the Ministry of Works.
Meanwhile, Rukungiri District LC5 Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama assured residents that surveys have already been conducted, and the central government is engaged in plans to fix the road. He revealed that coordination is ongoing between the area Member of Parliament and the Ministry of Works and Transport.
Residents now wait with bated breath, hoping that their voices will finally prompt action before further economic and social disruptions occur.
