By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAKUMIRO
The state minister for works and transport, Fred Byamukama has called for protection and regular maintenance of public infrastructures in local governments.
Byamukama made the remarks during the official handed over of the 63-metre Kyenyonga–Kikaada Hybrid Trail Bridge to Kakumiro District Local Government on Friday, when he urged district administration to establish a functional Operations and Maintenance Committee to protect and safeguard the bridge against vandalism and ensure its longevity.
According to the minister, the bridge will ease movement of people and goods, particularly benefiting rural farmers and traders from the villages of Kyenyonga, Kihurumba and Kikaada, which have for years faced transport challenges, especially during the rainy season.
“Today, we are not merely commissioning a structure; we are removing a long-standing barrier to opportunity and reinforcing Government’s commitment to inclusive development,” Byamukama said.
He noted that infrastructure plays a critical role in the success of the Parish Development Model at the grassroots level.
“Infrastructure such as this trail bridge is crucial for the successful implementation of PDM at parish level. Without connectivity, wealth creation cannot be fully realised,” he added.
The minister further reiterated Government’s commitment to extending reliable transport infrastructure to hard-to-reach areas across the country.
“Our focus on accessibility as Government is guided by the commitment to provide the rural population with adequate and reliable access to transport infrastructure,” he said. “Pedestrian trail bridges complement the road network and ensure that communities in remote areas are fully integrated into the national development agenda and are not left behind.”
EACOP hands over road in Hoima
In a related development, the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), in partnership with Hoima City, has handed over the newly constructed Nyamasoga–Katooke Road under its Socio-Economic Investment (SEI) programme.
The 7.5-kilometre marram road connects Kayera and Katooke villages, home to about 6,500 residents in more than 600 households. The road is expected to boost trade and improve access to social services within communities along the pipeline route.
EACOP Deputy Managing Director JB Habumugisha said the project underscores the company’s commitment to supporting sustainable community development.
“This road project demonstrates our dedication to supporting local development priorities in partnership with government authorities,” Habumugisha said.
The Hoima Resident District Commissioner, Rodgers Mbabazi, commended EACOP for investing in community infrastructure, noting that such initiatives are key to advancing local development and improving the quality of life of residents.
