Locals complain over pace of Masaka-Mutukula roadworks

A section of the Masaka–Kyotera–Mutukula Road under construction in June 2026. PHOTO/AL-MAHDI SSENKABIRWA

Nearly two years after the reconstruction of the Masaka–Kyotera–Mutukula highway commenced, residents, traders, and motorists along the busy transport corridor are increasingly questioning the pace of work on one of Uganda’s most strategic roads.

The 89.5-kilometre highway, which connects central Uganda to the Tanzanian border at Mutukula, is being reconstructed at a cost of approximately Shs692 billion by the Chinese contractor Chongqing International Construction Corporation (CICO) under a pre-financing arrangement.

Government officials have described the project as a critical investment aimed at enhancing regional trade, reducing transportation costs, and improving road safety along the southern trade corridor. The road, originally constructed in the 1960s, is being upgraded to first-class bitumen standards.

The project was officially launched in March 2024 by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, with the contractor expected to complete the works within 60 months.

However, nearly 24 months into implementation, many residents say the progress visible on the ground falls short of public expectations.

For traders operating in the numerous trading centres scattered along the highway, the prolonged construction works have brought mixed fortunes.

In Bukunda Trading Centre in Kyotera District, shop owners say the persistent dust generated by heavy trucks and construction activities has affected business operations and reduced customer confidence. Mr Simon Peter Mujuzi, a retail shop owner, says keeping merchandise clean has become a daily struggle.

“Most of the goods in my shop are covered with dust. Some customers assume the products are old or expired simply because of how they look,” he says.

According to Mr Mujuzi, despite regular cleaning, dust quickly settles back on the shelves, discouraging potential buyers.

“Customers prefer buying clean products. When they see dust-covered items, many simply walk away. This has greatly affected our sales,” he explains.

The concerns are echoed by fruit and vegetable vendors whose businesses depend heavily on customers’ perceptions of cleanliness.

Mr Joseph Ssennono, a resident of Kabonera Trading Centre, says traders dealing in fresh produce have registered declining sales over recent months.

“Fruits, tomatoes, and vegetables are among the most affected commodities. Many customers fear buying food that has been exposed to dust. Some vendors are forced to lower prices, while others suffer losses when pro