Kira, once a beacon of rapid development within the Kampala Metropolitan Area, has seen its allure slightly tarnished by one persistent issue: poor road infrastructure. The municipality, known for its striking residential and commercial buildings, has long been plagued by dusty and potholed roads, frustrating both new and old residents.
A Common Frustration
For many Kira dwellers, the dusty roads have been the primary drawback of living in this burgeoning township. The worn-out and poorly maintained road network has been a constant source of inconvenience and discontent. This pervasive issue has overshadowed the area’s otherwise promising growth.
Community-Led Solution
In a remarkable show of community spirit, residents have come together to support a transformative road improvement project. Under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP), funded by the World Bank, a significant road construction initiative is underway to address these longstanding issues.
The willingness of residents to relinquish sections of their land without demanding compensation has been pivotal. This collective sacrifice is paving the way for the construction and tarmacking of three major roads, a project valued at UGX59 billion.
Leadership Commends Cooperation
Mr. Benon Yiga, the Municipal Town Clerk, highlighted the overwhelming support from the community. “What we have been doing is engaging the affected people, and so far, we are ready to go,” he said. He noted that 95% of residents along the Buwate-Kungu (Biwanju) Road and 79% along the Kiwatule-Kiira-Kiwologoma Road have signed voluntary consents, allowing the project to proceed smoothly.
The dual carriage roads will accommodate two vehicles moving in each direction simultaneously, significantly improving traffic flow and connectivity within the municipality.
Mayoral Praise
Mayor Julius Mutebi Nsubuga echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the community’s cooperation. More than 80% of residents in Kiwatule, Najjera, and Buwate have signed consent forms for the construction of the Mbogo-Cyprian Kizito Road (commonly known as Kiwatule-Kira-Kiwologoma) and the Buwanju Road (Buwate-Kungu Road), totaling 9km and 2.3km respectively.
Contract Signing and Project Timeline
A few weeks ago, Kira Municipal Council hosted a contract signing ceremony for the road works at the council headquarters. The contract was awarded to China Chongqing International Construction Corporation (CHICO), a Chinese firm renowned for its expertise in road construction. The Chinese contractors have pledged to complete the project within 18 months.
Ms. Minsa Kabanda, the Minister of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, presided over the ceremony and commended the local leaders for their dedication to the project’s success.
Funding and Future Developments
Kira Municipality has been allocated UGX286 billion under the GKMA-UDP, aimed at constructing several access roads and upgrading markets and drainage systems. In the second phase of the project, the government plans to tarmac additional roads, including Kamuli-Baker-Naalya Road, Bweyogerere-Butto Road, and Azam-Makanga-Ntebetebe Road.
CHICO’s Track Record
CHICO, a subsidiary of Chongqing Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Group Co., Ltd. (CFTEC), has a notable history of successful road projects in Uganda. The company previously constructed the $350 million Entebbe–Kampala Expressway, funded by the Export-Import Bank of China, and the Fort Portal–Bundibugyo–Lamia Road between 2010 and 2014. Another significant project was the 42-kilometer Matugga–Kapeeka Road, partially funded by the Nordic Development Fund, completed between 2009 and 2010.
A Promising Future
As Kira undergoes this significant transformation, residents remain hopeful that the new road infrastructure will revitalize the municipality. Improved roads are expected to enhance connectivity, boost economic activities, and improve the overall quality of life. With the community’s unwavering support and the dedicated efforts of local leaders, Kira is set to become a model of urban development and progress within the Kampala Metropolitan Area.
Author Profile
- Mr. Daniels N. Tatya is an affluent Sports Writer, Commentator and Editor. His over 15 years of covering almost major sporting events makes him a revered and an authority on investigative Sports journalism in Uganda. He can also be reached via [email protected] +256(0)758268315
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