The Chinese construction company, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), which is responsible for building roads under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Project in Mukono Municipality, has resumed its operations today after a temporary suspension. The company had been halted from continuing its work following concerns raised by local authorities.
Last Saturday, the Town Clerk of Mukono Municipality, along with officials from Kampala, suspended the company's activities due to breaches in the contract agreement. The suspension came after the company failed to meet certain standards and obligations outlined in their agreement with the government.
On July 24, 2024, the company signed a contract with Mukono Municipality to construct several roads, including Kame Valley, Kikooza, Nabuuti, and Nsuube, among others. The project, valued at 46 billion shillings, was expected to be completed within one and a half years.
According to Bernadette Ndema, the Program Communication Specialist for the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Program (GKMA-UDP), the suspension was imposed due to several unresolved issues, including environmental concerns, worker safety, and other contractual breaches. She explained that the company had failed to adhere to the agreed-upon standards, prompting the authorities to take action.
Ndema further stated that after discussions, the parties agreed to allow the company to resume work, provided they address the identified issues promptly. She emphasized that this was not the first time the company had faced such challenges and urged them to ensure compliance to avoid future suspensions.
Francis Byabagambi, the Mukono Municipality Town Clerk, confirmed that the company had already begun addressing some of the concerns that led to the suspension. These included the use of faulty construction vehicles, poor working conditions for employees, and health and safety violations. He noted that these issues had been rectified, allowing the company to resume operations.
Byabagambi also warned that if the company fails to comply with the agreed terms again, the municipal authorities have the power to terminate the contract and seek alternative service providers.
Bruce Rukundo, a representative from the Ministry of Kampala, which oversees the project, assured stakeholders that the government is closely monitoring the situation. He stated that the ministry is committed to ensuring the project's success and will take necessary measures to address any further challenges.
The suspension of the company's operations had drawn public attention, especially after an incident on June 28, 2024, when a worker, Ambrose Niwamanya, died after being struck by cement blocks at the construction site. His body was transported to Kabale for burial, and the company later reported the incident to the Mukono Police Station, where a case was opened.
The resumption of work marks a new phase in the project, with authorities urging the company to adhere to all contractual obligations and ensure the safety and well-being of its workers. The completion of the road construction project is expected to significantly improve infrastructure and connectivity in Mukono Municipality.
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