By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The government of Uganda has entered the implementation phase of its long-delayed Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, with preliminary works now underway following the signing of a contract with Turkish contractor, Yapi Merkezi, in October last year. President Yoweri Museveni officially launched the project in November 2024 in Tororo.
According to the Project Coordinator Engineer Canon Perez Wamburu, €75 million has been released under a “limited notice to proceed” arrangement to allow early works while final financing arrangements are concluded.
“This funding is being used to carry out surveys, soil investigations, and preliminary construction activities along the Malaba–Kampala corridor,” Eng Canon Wamburu says.
He also noted that the government has contracted SSF Joint Venture in partnership with Uganda’s PEC Consulting to oversee quality and compliance of the project.
The 273-kilometre Malaba–Kampala is the first phase of the actual planned 1,724 kilometers (1,071 miles) long, and it is expected to cost about €2.7 billion meant for the establishment of a sleeper manufacturing plant in Uganda, sourcing of local construction materials such as aggregates and sand, and large-scale stakeholder engagement with affected communities.
The Project Management Unit officials say that 40% of the project budget (approximately €1.08 billion) has been earmarked for local content. This is expected to benefit Ugandan subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and service providers in fields such as civil works, haulage, material supply, and labor.
They also announced a national content symposium which has been scheduled for Friday, August 29, at Speke Resort Munyonyo, to brief local businesses on how they can participate.
“This is a huge opportunity for Ugandans,” said Eng. Cannon Wamburu. “But to benefit, companies must be prepared, compliant, and capable of delivering quality, quantity, and safety within the strict timelines of this project.”
The SGR is part of Uganda’s broader plan to modernize its railway infrastructure and reduce reliance on road transport for cargo. Once complete, 1,724 kilometers (1,071 miles) long, comprising four routes to connect major points within Uganda and link to neighboring countries. This network is being developed in phases, starting with the 272 km Malaba–Kampala Eastern Route. The Western Route: Starting in Kampala and extending to the DRC border at Mpondwe, with a branch to Kasese. The Northern Route: Connecting Kampala northwards to Gulu and the border with South Sudan at Nimule.
Government says the SGR is designed to replace the aging meter-gauge railway system, improve cargo and passenger transportation, and alleviate pressure on road infrastructure. The network is also intended to connect Uganda to other East African region, one way of strengthening regional trade links and lowering transport costs.
SGR Project Management Unit says the project is expected to be completed within four years.
