Political Interference, Empty Promises Leave Multi-Billion Project in Limbo
Busia, Uganda – Frustration is mounting among cross-border traders in Busia as the long-awaited Busia Border Export Zone Market remains incomplete, nine years after its launch.
A Project in Peril
The market, initiated in 2017 under the Regional Implementation Program (RIP) by the Ministry of Trade, was meant to boost regional trade and create jobs. However, only a single warehouse (built in 2020) stands idle on the site, with no further progress.
Godfrey Ongwabe, National Chairman of Cross-Border Trade, accused political interference of derailing the project.
“We’ve written to the State Minister for Regional Cooperation, but nothing changes,” he said.
Leaders Point Fingers
- Sam Mangeni Okumu (Mayor, Masafu Town Council) blamed district politicians for the delays.
- Martin Egesa (LCV Councilor) expressed dismay, saying locals were promised jobs but see zero development.
- Alupo Sicola (Busia Deputy CAO) cited “too much politics” as the main obstacle.
District Leadership Responds
Stephen Mugeni Wasike, Busia LCV Chairman, denied allegations of political meddling, insisting his focus is on land demarcation and road access first.
“We reject investors who just want petrol stations. We need factories—chicken processing, starch production, even legal marijuana (enjaga) ventures,” he said.
Government Steps In?
During a recent meeting on the Bukedi Development Plan, Dr. Monica Musenero (Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation) pledged to follow up with relevant ministries.
“This is a national program meant to create jobs. We must cut through the politics and get it done,” she said.
Traders Demand Action
With the project stalled indefinitely, Busia’s cross-border traders—who rely on the market for livelihoods—are left wondering:
Who is truly responsible for the delays?
When will construction finally resume?
Will this promised economic lifeline ever materialize?
