Kabale District has launched rehabilitation of 58.2 kilometres of community access roads using Shs494.7 million from the Road Maintenance Grant, targeting better transport links and easier delivery of agricultural produce to markets.
Kabale District authorities have launched the rehabilitation of three community access roads covering 58.2 kilometres, with the works expected to improve connectivity and ease the transportation of agricultural produce to markets.
The projects will be funded under the district’s Shs1 billion Road Maintenance Grant, with Shs494.7 million allocated to the three road sections.
According to Kabale District Engineer Januario Turinawe Bagamuhunda, the roads include the 23.9-kilometre Bushuro–Rwakihiirwa–Rwene road, which traverses Maziba and Buhara sub-counties, at a cost of Shs203.15 million.
The second is the 10-kilometre Kakoma–Butuza–Kyasano–Bunagana road in Kamuganguzi Sub-county, allocated Shs85 million.
The third is the 24.3-kilometre Rwonkoronga–Nyombi–Kyevu–Kagoma–Katete Nkora road, which serves Kahungye and Butanda sub-counties, at a cost of Shs206.55 million.
“Works will include site preparation, clearing, earthworks and drainage improvements,” Bagamuhunda said.
Kabale Chief Administrative Officer Robert Mugabe urged residents in the beneficiary communities to monitor the works and report substandard construction to the relevant authorities to ensure quality and value for money.
He said improved road connectivity would help farmers embrace commercial agriculture by making it easier to transport produce to markets and access other economic opportunities.
Mugabe also encouraged residents to participate in government socio-economic programmes aimed at improving household incomes.
Kabale District LCV Chairperson Denis Nzeirwe called on residents and local leaders to take ownership of the projects and closely supervise the works.
He proposed that communities use the monthly National Cleaning Day to maintain roads and drainage channels, helping preserve the infrastructure and prevent avoidable deterioration.
Nzeirwe said the district planned to widen the roads to appropriate specifications to accommodate growing demand for the transportation of agricultural produce and other goods. He urged local leaders to mobilise residents to support the exercise.
Kabale Resident District Commissioner Maj. Godfrey Katamba said the National Resistance Movement (NRM) manifesto prioritises district and community access roads to improve connectivity and market access.
Katamba also said the government intended to increase the Road Maintenance Grant from Shs1 billion to Shs2 billion per district, depending on funding arrangements.
He urged residents to support government programmes aimed at tackling household poverty.