NELSON K
Tensions are rising in Kanungu District as both residents and local leaders decry the poor condition of the Kanungu–Rugyeyo–Kabaranga road. Local leaders are blaming the government and higher authorities for merging the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) into the Ministry of Works and Transport — a move they say has led to inconsistencies in road maintenance and service delivery.
The Kanungu–Rugyeyo–Kabaranga road, which was previously managed by UNRA, is now in a deplorable state, making transport in the area extremely difficult. Residents report that some sections of the road lack culverts, especially in hilly and swampy spots, worsening the situation during rainy seasons.
Nyakabungo Town Council Mayor Mr. Frugence told Boona FM that the poor road condition has caused great suffering among road users, affecting the transportation of goods and leading to frequent vehicle breakdowns.
Mr. Frugence further noted that many other roads across Kanungu District are also in poor condition, which has greatly disrupted the local transport network and economic activities.
He blamed the government for merging UNRA with the Ministry of Works and Transport, saying that during the UNRA era, major roads like this one were regularly maintained and properly fitted with drainage culverts. He added that the Ministry’s current inconsistency has led to widespread deterioration of road infrastructure.
Mr. Frugence also expressed disappointment that the engineer recently assigned to work on the road neglected proper drainage, placing water outlets and culverts too far apart, and yet responsible leaders have remained silent on the matter.
He urged the government to always consult local communities before making major policy decisions, emphasizing that people on the ground understand rural challenges better.
Meanwhile, a resident who preferred anonymity cited a spot near the late Garuga’s tea plantation as particularly impassable during rainy seasons. He said poor drainage and lack of culverts have made the road nearly unusable and called on the government to urgently intervene.
In response, Eng. Alison Abenawe, the former UNRA Manager for Kigezi Subregion and now overseeing roads under the Ministry of Works and Transport, expressed regret over the poor state of the Kanungu–Rugyeyo–Kabaranga road. She acknowledged that the Ministry is aware of the problem and assured residents that plans are underway to rehabilitate the road within this financial quarter.
Eng. Abenawe pledged that by December 2025, the road will have been reconstructed and fully improved.
