Simpson M
Residents of Ngoma Parish in Nyakishenyi Sub-county, Rukungiri District, have expressed deep concern over the poor condition of their roads, which they say is hampering development in the area.
The Migyegye-Nyakahanga-Nyakishenyi road, which connects more than five parishes, has not been rehabilitated in about five years, despite repeated pleas from the residents.
According to the residents, the deteriorating state of the roads has significantly hindered trade and access to essential services, including healthcare and education, among other challenges in the area.
They added that the lack of proper transportation routes has caused their agricultural produce, particularly perishable goods, to spoil before reaching the market.
The residents said the government’s failure to repair the roads has put their lives at risk, especially for those who use the roads regularly.
Most of the main roads in Ngoma Parish, including the Mineera-Nyabushenyi-Kigarama-Nyaruranbi road, are impassable due to numerous deep gullies, leading to frequent accidents and even loss of lives.
The residents mentioned that they have repeatedly informed district authorities about the need for road rehabilitation, but their requests have gone unanswered.
They are now appealing to their leaders and concerned authorities to address the issue, stating that they have endured enough suffering.
Emmanuel Ndaajuna, the LC1 Chairperson of Kigarama Cell, said the worsening condition of the roads in the area has completely disrupted transportation, trade, and other essential services.
He noted that the residents attempted to construct a road using hand tools to access services in Nyakishenyi but were unsuccessful due to the lack of government support. He urged the district authorities to provide at least a tractor to help them continue the work.
The poor state of the roads has also caused the prices of agricultural products to drop, as farmers have become vulnerable to middlemen who exploit the impassable roads to buy their products cheaply at farm-gate prices.
Emmanuel mentioned that despite notifying their leaders about the issue, nothing has been done, and he fears the leaders will only return when seeking votes.
He, therefore, appeals to their leaders to provide some support, as the roads currently rely solely on the efforts of the residents.
