Residents raise alarm as contractor abandons Biiso–Masindi Road project

Masindi: Residents and local leaders in Masindi District are raising alarm over the deteriorating state of the Biiso–Masindi Road, following reports that the contractor abandoned the project before its completion.

The 47-kilometre Biiso–Masindi Road, one of Uganda’s critical oil roads, was awarded in 2019 to China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd., which later subcontracted the works to STC. The road was expected to be completed by 2022, but due to repeated extensions and financial challenges, the project remains incomplete.

Reports indicate that the contractor abandoned the project due to unpaid arrears amounting to UGX 120 billion.

Julius Kyahurwa, the LCIII Chairperson of Budongo Sub-county, said residents initially welcomed the project with optimism, but their hopes have since turned into disappointment.

“We were happy when construction started, but now we are suffering after the contractor abandoned the road. Recently, three family members drowned in an uncovered pit left behind by the contractor,” Kyahurwa said.

He added that due to the poor state of the road, motorists are diverting to feeder roads, leading to increased traffic and damage to those routes.

Similarly, Sampline Balyebuga, the LCIII Chairperson of Kabango Town Council, said the abandoned project has caused several problems for residents, including accidents and flooding.

“Water floods people’s homes whenever it rains, and accidents are becoming frequent. We appeal to the government to expedite the completion of the project and install humps and signposts to improve road safety,” he said.

Motorcyclists and residents who depend on the road for daily transport say the situation has become unbearable.
Labon Kabagambe, a boda boda rider, said:

“We are constantly at the garage repairing our motorcycles because of the potholes and uneven surface. It’s very costly for us.”

Harriet Ngabire, another resident, said the community has lost lives because of the poor drainage left by the contractor. “Recently, a child drowned in the flooded section of the road. We no longer let our children play outside when it rains,” she said tearfully.

Responding to the concerns, Kenneth Kiiza Nyendwoha, the Bujenje County Member of Parliament, confirmed that the contractor had initially stopped work due to outstanding payments exceeding UGX 100 billion.

“The contractor has now resumed work after receiving part of the payment. We believe the road will be completed soon,” he assured, urging residents to use the available sections of the road to transport their produce to markets.

Allan Atugonza, the Buliisa County MP, also encouraged residents to remain optimistic and prepare to benefit from the road once works resume.

“Our people should be ready to use this road to transport their produce to markets. Let’s continue engaging in productive activities,” he said.

Despite assurances from the leaders, residents remain anxious as sections of the road continue to deteriorate, posing safety risks and hampering economic activities in the oil-rich region.

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