NELSON K
Local leaders from Rukungiri and Ntungamo districts have raised urgent concerns about the deteriorating condition of the Kanungu-Nyakishenyi-Kyempene-Rubaare road. The road has been described as being in a deplorable state by Nyakishenyi LC3 Chairperson Wednesday Twinomujuni, Nyarushanje LC3 Chairperson Michael Musiime, and Rugarama North Subcounty LC3 Chairperson Ivan Rwanyakibare, whose residents rely heavily on it.
Speaking to our reporter, Wednesday Twinomujuni highlighted the significant challenges residents face due to the poor state of the road. He explained that the road is crucial for transporting agricultural products and raw materials between Rukungiri, Ntungamo, and Kanungu districts. It also serves as a key route for tourists visiting attractions such as Kisizi and Bwindi in Kanungu.
Twinomujuni appealed to government authorities to honor their longstanding promise to tarmac the road, emphasizing its importance for fostering economic growth and boosting tourism in the region.
Michael Musiime, the Nyarushanje LC3 Chairperson, also underscored the road’s significance. He pointed out that it facilitates the transportation of goods and residents between Nyarushanje and other areas. Musiime lamented that the rugged terrain and highlands where the road passes require frequent and costly renovations, including annual applications of murram, which waste resources.
He urged the government to prioritize tarmacking the road to reduce the need for frequent repairs and support the economic activities of residents in Rukungiri District.
Ivan Rwanyakibare, the LC3 Chairperson of Rugarama North, similarly emphasized the road’s importance. He noted that the road connects Ntungamo and Rukungiri, facilitating economic trade and commerce among residents.
Rwanyakibare added that many residents from Ntungamo travel via this road to access medical services at Kisizi Hospital. Furthermore, agricultural products, particularly milk, are transported from Rugarama North to Nyarushanje and beyond. He joined other leaders in calling for urgent government intervention to address the poor condition of the road.
When contacted about the issue, Eng. Alison Abenawe, the UNRA Manager for Kabale, acknowledged the challenges of maintaining the road. She explained that the rugged terrain and highland areas contribute significantly to its poor condition, especially during the rainy season.
Eng. Alison stated that while UNRA has been carrying out annual renovations, tarmacking the road is a complex process requiring substantial funding. She further noted that UNRA has been merged with the Ministry of Works and Transport and is awaiting guidance on handling the matter, as they currently have no contract or mandate for the road’s tarmacking.
